Fundraisers raise over £34,000 for Suffolk Mind in daring weekend challenge

The big picture: Suffolk Mind saw an outpouring of community support during their "daring donation double header" on September 21-22, with fundraisers pushing their limits for a good cause.

By the numbers:

• 22 skydivers took to the skies over Beccles Airfield.

• 57 runners tackled the Larking Gowen Ipswich Half Marathon.

• £34,375 total raised across both events.

Special mentions: Suffolk Mind's sponsor, Orwell Fitness, donated specially designed vests for the half marathon runners, and Orwell Fitness founders Darren Hotten and Kirsty Turner also completed the race.

One participant, Oliver Watson, took on both the skydive and half marathon, raising over £1,100.

What they're saying:

Oliver Watson: "I thoroughly enjoyed taking part in the skydive and Larking Gowen Ipswich Half Marathon for Suffolk Mind. It made for a busy weekend, but I would recommend it to anyone."

Wendy Sheppard, Head of Income Generation at Suffolk Mind: "The only thing more amazing than the performance of our awe-inspiring runners and skydivers was the huge amount of money they raised."

What's next: Those interested in participating in the 2025 Larking Gowen Ipswich Half can sign up now at Suffolk Mind's website.

The bottom line: Every penny raised will support Suffolk Mind's mission to make Suffolk "the best place in the world to talk about and take care of mental health."