A charity event for mental health has seen participants cover 360 miles-worth of laps around Preston Docks and raise hundreds of pounds for charity.

The Mental Health Marathon was planned to promote the benefits of exercise for mental health while fundraising for SEED/Breathe and St Catherine’s Hospice.

Sunday’s event was organised by the Preston Community Mental Health Team, which is made up of colleagues from the NHS and Lancashire County Council.

One of the organisers, Hazel Atherton, said: “The idea started when my colleague Tracy and I took a walk one evening and thought how much we loved the peace and tranquility of the Docks – and wondered if we could get folks to join us.

“On Sunday around 90 people checked in for what was a fantastic event. A total of 247 laps were completed, which equates to 360.62 miles or 13.87 Mental Health Marathons.

“We had friends, colleagues, single runners/walkers and groups, dogs, children and families. We had some great feedback from participants on the inclusivity of the event. We all came together and it was truly amazing!”

Read more: Be a ‘mental health mate’ and join these monthly walks in Preston

There are now plans for another Mental Health Marathon to take place at the same time and place next year.

The total amount raised is to be confirmed, and donations are still being accepted on the Mental Health Marathon JustGiving page.

Read more: Plea for Race For Life cash as £6,000 remains outstanding

What do you think of the Mental Health Marathon? Did you take part? Let us know in the comments below.