BARRY Town Council has announced a new Christmas fun run event will take place next month.

The popular Santa Fun Run will return to Barry Island on Sunday, December 3. But it will now be known as the Mental Elf Run to raise awareness of mental health and wellbeing. 

In partnership with Mind in the Vale, the event will have a new theme of elves instead of the traditional Santa suits seen in previous races.

Mind in the Vale is one of the chosen charities for the Mayor of Barry, with sponsorship money going towards the charity's valuable work.

Cllr Ian Johnson, Mayor of Barry said: “As one of my Mayoral Charities, I am really pleased that Barry Town Council are working with Mind in the Vale to put on this event.

“This is a great opportunity to put on your running shoes for a really good cause and have a fun day out on Barry Island just before Christmas.”

The Mental Elf fun run will feature a 2K run for adults, children, and dogs. There will be a £6 registration fee for adults, while children and dogs are free.

The event is open to all ages and abilities, and runners are encouraged to dress up as elves. 

Those attending will need to register for a ticket. The fee includes the fundraising pack, access to the fun run, elf-themed accessories for the event and the medal.

Runners are advised to arrive at Barry Island at 10 am, with the race starting at 11am.

Mind in the Vale of Glamorgan is an independent mental health charity affiliated with Mind National.

They work with and for people who experience mental health problems.

Registration for the 2K Mental Elf Run will open soon and all the information you need can be found at https://www.barrytowncouncil.gov.uk/etn/mental-elf-run-2023/

Sponsorship forms are required this year, and they can be done through the traditional method of a paper sponsorship form or through the online donation portal, found on Barry Town Council’s website.