Colchester United Football Club’s mascot, Eddie the Eagle, will be taking on a 10K challenge to raise much-needed funds for Mid and North East Essex Mind.
The Stampede is a 10K run, which takes place on Sunday 18 May at Colchester Zoo from 9am. The annual event offers fundraisers the chance to run, jog or walk past the elephants, giraffes and zebras at the much-loved visitor attraction. The run also winds around the nearby villages and countryside before finishing back at the zoo. By taking part, runners will also be supporting The Colchester Zoological Society helping conservation projects worldwide.
Eddie the Eagle is in ‘special training’ ahead of their fundraising dash. Eddie says: “I’m doing lots of long runs around the stadium, some speed drills on the pitch, and plenty of wing stretches! I’ve also been working on my celebratory dance moves for the finish line!”
Colchester United has been a long-term supporter of mental health charity, Mid and North East Essex Mind, and understands the importance of mental wellbeing.
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 does incredible work, and I’m proud to be a part of it. We all need to look out for each other, and that includes our mental health.”
Mid and North East Essex Mind provides a wide range of mental health services for people in the area. The charity runs the North East Essex Sanctuary for people experiencing a mental health crisis or need support to stay well. There is also a range of counselling services, online support, and resources hub, plus training to improve mental wellbeing.
Ginny Idehen, CEO, Mid and North East Essex Mind, added: “We’re really pleased Eddie the Eagle has signed up to the Stampede. 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.”
Eddie the Eagle will be supported by their special wingman, Steve Fall, 49, Colchester, to help pave the way around the course.
To take part in the Stampede, runners need to pay just £19. Once they’ve raised £50, they will receive a free wildlife-themed Mid and North East Essex Mind runners’ vest. Each participant will also receive a commemorative medal, chip timing, free event photos and an invite to a post-run drinks reception. After the event, runners can enjoy a free day out at Colchester Zoo; friends and family can benefit from discounted entry.
To sign up to the Stampede on behalf of Mid and North East Essex Mind, visit www.mnessexmind.org/colchesterstampede2025. To donate to Eddie the Eagle’s Stampede fund, visit
www.justgiving.com/campaign/eddietheeagle.
