After a blanketing of snow on Saturday that saw three Christmas fairs unfortunately cancelled due to the weather, founder of Quinn’s Retreat, Tracy Beadle and her Mental Elf Fun Run team were nervously watching the weather reports for Sunday.
However, the snow subsided and the sun shone through to allow over 35 adults and children take part in the first mental health charity run around Hackworth Park with Shildon’s own Scouts doing a fabulous job marshalling the route.
The Civic Hall was then festooned with balloons where a very regal Father Christmas took centre stage and the room was host to a vast array of crafts and artisans, all selling their wares in time for Christmas.
Tracey was delighted with the support from the residents of Shildon: “Despite the crazy weather so many people turned out to take part and watch the fun run and come to the Christmas fair,” she said.
“Christmas can be such a difficult time for many people, it can feel very isolating.
“Coming together like people have in this event does raise much needed awareness about mental health. Please reach out to those around you and know that you are not alone.”
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
