An inspiring group of runners took part in Southampton’s marathon this weekend and collectively raised more than £4,000 for Solent Mind.

The city’s iconic ABP Southampton Marathon event marked its 10^th year on Sunday 6 April, drawing thousands of runners into the heart of the city to take on the full marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 5K races. With the sun shining brightly, eager spectators gathered along the side lines to cheer on participants, helping to create an incredible, lively atmosphere.

Among those running on the day were 14 people who were taking on the challenge in aid of Solent Mind. Together, they’ve already raised more than £4,000 – and donations are still coming in.

For a second year, Southampton resident, Sam Clissold, ran the full marathon in aid of the mental health charity. Sam has been living with depression for the past two years and has benefited from using Solent Mind’s services himself.

Sam said: “Anyone can be affected by poor mental health and the services that Solent Mind provide are invaluable. By raising money for the charity, I want to ensure it can continue to help people who need it in the region.”

Also taking on the 26.2 miles for Solent Mind for a second year was Mike Blundell, from Southampton. For Mike, running has been a ‘lifesaver’. By fundraising for Solent Mind, he wants to raise awareness of mental health and help banish the stigma.

Mike said: “Running probably saved my life. It gave me time to reflect and come to terms with my own struggles.

“Unfortunately, there’s still a massive stigma – especially with men – that we need to bottle up our problems. If I can help raise awareness and some money to support charities like Solent Mind along the way, then it’s a no-brainer.”

It wasn’t just full marathon runners who chose to raise money for Solent Mind, either. Gina Lloyd, also from Southampton, took on the 10k run in support of the mental health charity. The 28-year-old said that it was Solent Mind that helped her get through a very difficult time in her life.

Gina said: “When I was 17, I suffered with chronic depression and found daily life overwhelming. I had support from Solent Mind’s Mayfield Garden Centre at the time, which really helped. To have the opportunity to give back, means so much to me.

“Running clears my head and stops me overthinking. This has been the first official race event that I’ve taken part in, and it felt like such an achievement to cross that finish line today.”

Gaynor Jordan-Davis, Solent Mind Fundraising Manager, said: “A huge thank you to our marathon fundraisers, you’re all amazing! As a charity we need to raise over £800,000 this year to ensure our vital services can keep running, so we’re extremely grateful for this incredible support.”

If you would like to sign up to next year’s ABP Southampton Marathon or take part in Portsmouth’s Great South Run in aid of Solent Mind, please let us know at www.solentmind.org.uk/support-us/fundraising/challenge/.