Brecon Mind has encouraged runners to go ahead with their 5km runs after the ‘Mental Elf’ fun run was unfortunately cancelled due to Storm Darragh.

The fun run was due to take place on Sunday, December 8, at Brecon Promenade Park.

A spokesperson for Brecon Mind said: “This was a difficult decision to make but unfortunately, due to the impact and warnings of the recent Storm Darragh, we were unable to proceed with the event as planned. We are really disappointed by this as we can imagine our participants, volunteers, sponsors and partners who were looking forward to the occasion are.

“Not only was this a fun and festive event for everyone to enjoy, but from a mental health perspective, running and walking has been found to help improve mood and sleep and can play a key role in recovery from a mental health problem.

“We were also raising some much-needed funds for our charity to continue delivering our vital mental health services in Brecon and surrounding areas, such as our one-to-one support, wellbeing in nature with Green Minds, Counselling, and Mums Matter course.

“We really do appreciate all the support with this event, as we couldn’t do this work without your help.”

“We are asking ticket holders to go ahead with the 5km run in their own time by themselves, with friends or family or possibly at other organised runs such as Y Promenâd parkrun on a Saturday - just make sure you register prior to the parkrun on the website,“ they added.

Once the run is completed, you can post photos tagging Brecon and District Mind and #BreconMentalElf on social media or send them to Brecon Mind on [email protected] and arrange to collect your medal and goody bag from the wellbeing centre at St Davids House, 48 Free Street, Brecon.

The charity will still be giving prizes for best dressed adult, child and dog elves, so make sure to send in your photos. Winners will be announced on January 10.

Brecon Mind is also offering refunds to ticket holders. For any further questions, email: [email protected].

A spokesperson for Brecon and District Mind added: “We want to give a big thank you to our sponsors Beacons Glazing, CMJ Motors, Roy Hatton Car Sales and to St John’s Ambulance, Brecon Male Voice Choir, Brecon Town Council, Mayor of Brecon Cllr John Powell and all our volunteers for their continued support.

“Thank you for your understanding and support. Together, we can ensure that Brecon and District Mind can continue our work to help people manage their mental health and wellbeing in our local community.”

“Watch this space for Mental Elf 2025! To find out more about how you can get involved including organising, promoting, sponsorship and volunteering please get in touch,” they added.

To find out more information about the support available at Brecon & District Mind or how you can get involved with the charity, please visit their website: www.breconmind.org.uk