BARNEY Goodrich, head of geography and humanities at Christ College in Brecon raised more than £700 running the London Marathon 2017 for Brecon and District Mind.
Barney, whose run has so far brought in £701, said: “As a keen runner and member of Brecon AC, I try and do a marathon each year.
“This year I wanted to run for a local charity – I love living in Brecon and it’s great to be able to give something back to the community.
“I was interested in supporting mental health having known people who have suffered. Brecon and District Mind was recommended to me as a local charity by a colleague whose son has benefited greatly from their work and support.
“Marathon day, as ever, was absolutely brilliant and the support from various Mind camps along the course spurred me on through some difficult miles towards the end. I finished in three hours 19 minutes.
“The mental health issue ended up being prominent on marathon day with Prince Harry and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s ‘Heads Together’ campaign and it was a privilege to be a part of it.”
The charity delivers a range of activities and services in Brecon, Talgarth, Hay-on-Wye and Crickhowell all aimed at supporting people to improve and maintain good mental health and wellbeing.
There are specific projects geared towards employer and employee support, volunteering opportunities, early intervention programmes and support for new mums with postnatal mental health issues.
Val Walker, service director of Brecon and District Mind said: “We are very grateful to people like Barney who take part in challenge events such as the London Marathon. The event was particularly pertinent this year as it was headlined as the Mental Health Marathon.
“These events raise much needed funds for both Mind in general and local Minds such as Brecon Mind. The funds will be used to support those people with mental health needs in the Brecon and District area.
“Thanks again to Barney and his supporters for his amazing donation.”