Colchester Zoo hosts charity run raising over £20k

The funds were raised through this year's 10k Stampede, held at Colchester Zoo on April 28.

With more than £22,000 collected, the event supported the work of Mid and North East Essex Mind.

Among the runners was Megan Foord from Halstead, who took part alongside her mother, Sarah, and sister, Chloe.

Ms Foord said: "I lost a friend to suicide, and we thought it would be good to raise money for a great charity.

"Mid and North East Mind have really helped me when I have struggled with mental health, and this is my way of thanking them."

The charity's CEO, Ginny Idehen, said: "We were overwhelmed by the response from fundraisers to this year's Stampede.

"Everyone in the community came out to support this fun event.

"Exercise is brilliant for our general fitness, but it also helps us release happy hormones, which is great for our mental health."

Mid and North East Essex Mind provides a wide range of mental health services.

These encompass group and one-to-one counselling, support for those recovering from addiction or mental health issues, and practical help addressing stress, anxiety, and depression.

The charity also runs a crisis cafe for urgent mental health care.

A spokesman said: "If you’re stressed, depressed or in crisis, we will work with you, respecting your wishes and experiences, to help you build the future you want."

The Stampede also backed Colchester Zoo’s ‘Action for the Wild’ charity, which funds global conservation projects and has set up a 6,000-hectare nature reserve in South Africa.

The zoo has been listed in the top two zoos in the UK and voted as 11th best zoo in the world as part of the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Attractions.

Mid and North East Essex Mind is also confirmed to be the charity partner for Stampede 2025, due to take place on April 27.

To enquire about running places, email fundraising@mnessexmind.org or call 01206 764600.

To find out more about the charity and its work, visit its website.