What people say
2022 event report by Dave Sharratt
The first Sunday of December has secured itself in the Bradley Stoke Community Calendar: this year's Mental 'Elf charity run was an absolute blast and raised over £1600 for the mental health foundation. Unsurprisingly for 9am on a chilly Sunday morning there weren't as many spectators as the Santa motorbikes, but more than 100 elves were dashing through the nature reserve cheered on by Santa marshals, plus one reindeer and one very confused/lost penguin at the "North Pole" - the beautifully crafted turnaround/halfway mark for the event. This year we were all in a very jovial mood before even lining up at the start, having been led through an Elf themed warm up, and after the event we all enjoyed a hot chocolate in our event momento mugs. I only saw adults taking part this year but the event is open to 11+ and I bet any kid who can get hold of an elf costume would really enjoy themselves. Jog or walk, there's a lot of support throughout the whole field, no rush just enjoy it! And with a parting shout out to organiser, warm-up leader, and merry-maker Debs Fry, we'll see you next year.
Tony Worgan, 2019
They used to call running events "fun runs" back in the 80s. Having ran in the very first Mental 'Elf 6k Charity Fun Run in Bradley Stoke, I can honestly say it really brings back the fun in run! All the athletes dressed as elves - and all the volunteers dressed as Santa! I really loved it, and would highly recommend it to everyone! A well run event for all the family - mine will all be there
Dave Sharratt, 2019
It was a crisp December morning in 2019 when I cycled over to Meadowbrook Primary to take part in my first organised fun run - the Bradley Stoke Mental Elf 6k 2019. All manner of elf- related costume from token efforts to full suits, not to mention the Santa marshals, appeared over the next 15 minutes and got ready to go. Coming together to spread a bit of amusement to passing motorists and cheer each other on through this fun, local event is exactly what running should be... a chance to get out, move, breath, enjoy the area and feel supported by all those around you. I was hooked.