Colchester United mascot runs 10K for mental health support
Eddie the Eagle is running around Colchester Zoo
Colchester United Football Club’s mascot, Eddie the Eagle, will be taking on a 10K challenge to raise funds for mental health support in Mid and North East Essex.
Runners and walkers will join Eddie the Eagle in The annual Stampede around Colchester Zoo, kicking off at 9am.
The route goes past the elephants, giraffes and zebras at the visitor attraction, as well as through nearby villages and countryside before finishing back at the zoo.
By taking part, runners support The Colchester Zoological Society helping conservation projects worldwide.
2000 runners are expected to take part this year.
The U's mascot, Eddie the Eagle, has said he's been in ‘special training’ ahead of the fundraising dash.
He's trained around the stadium, including speed drills on the pitch, and plenty of wing stretches!
"I've also been working on my celebratory dance moves for the finish line!” says Eddie.
Colchester United has been a longstanding supporter of mental health charity, Mid and North East Essex Mind.
Eddie the Eagle said: “I'm running to show that we're all in this together. Mental wellbeing is so important, even for the most soaring of spirits… and it affects everyone.
"I want to do my part to raise awareness and support those who need it."
Mid and North East Essex Mind serve a population of 600,000 people from Braintree to Clacton, and Colchester to Chelmsford, and provide services designed to meet local people’s needs.
Although the charity is affiliated with national Mind, they do not receive any funding from them, relying on donations from local people and businesses
The charity runs the North East Essex Sanctuary for people experiencing a mental health crisis or need general support.
There is also a range of counselling services, online support, and resources hub on offer.
Ginny Idehen, CEO, Mid and North East Essex Mind, added: “We’re here to help the people of mid and north east Essex, there’s no better way to reach into the heart of our community than with Colchester United at your side.”
She continued: “By linking with the local football team and by organising a fundraising run, it’s also a very important reminder that moving more is great for our mental health.”