There was plenty of festive cheer in Southampton earlier this month as more than 200 runners, walkers, and even some four-legged friends took part in Solent Mind’s ‘Mental Elf’ fun run, which raised more than £10,000 to support mental health in Hampshire.

Despite the rain, everyone was in good spirits. Participants donned their best elf costumes and Christmas outfits to tackle the 5k elf-themed route around Southampton Common. And, for those who arrived without their festive attire, ‘Elf-Yourself’ stations at each kilometre ensured everyone could cross the finish line as a fully-fledged Christmas elf.

The pre-Christmas event featured the Marchwood Military Wives Choir performing a selection of Yuletide classics. Families enjoyed festive activities and took their best ‘elfie selfie’ before heading off on the run, while Studio Twenty3 led a lively warm-up.

Funds were raised through ticket sales and individual sponsorship, and all profits will go directly towards Solent Mind’s mental health services, helping provide support to those who need it most.

Nicky Burton, Community Fundraising Lead, said: “It has been such a wonderful morning! Our fundraisers looked incredible in their outfits, and they didn’t let the rain dampen their festive spirits. A huge thank you to every one of them – the money raised will make a real difference to our services."

The headline sponsor for the festive fun run was David Wilson Homes in Southampton, who donated £2,500 to fund the event, and Nicky added: "Without the tremendous support from David Wilson Homes, and also Rees Leisure and StudioTwenty3, we couldn’t have delivered such a magical event for the community, so we are hugely grateful."

Marketing Manager at Barratt David Wilson Homes Southampton Division, Megan Hamlyn, said: “We’ve supported Solent Mind and its great events like the Mental Elf run for some time now. Mental health awareness is extremely important to us as a brand and we’re proud to support an event that is so popular - especially in the run-up to Christmas. We were delighted to play a part in making it possible this year and Solent Mind has created such a fun and vibrant event that gets everyone in the festive spirit.”

If you are interested in taking on a fundraising challenge in aid of Solent in 2026, you can find out more at: Take on a challenge | Solent Mind.

Take on a challenge

Getting active does great things for our mental health, so by taking on a challenge in aid of Solent Mind, you too will feel the benefits! Find out more