Midhurst teenager begins 5k a day challenge for mental health charity

Midhurst Rother College year 11 student Amelia Field is one of a number of young people who will run, walk or cycle 5km every day in February, all while preparing for her upcoming GCSEs.

Amelia, a member of the Midhurst Milers club, said the fundraiser was set up by William Chetwynd-Stapylton — a friend she met during the Chichester parkrun — in an effort to raise £500 for Young Minds Trust.

Amelia, who said she takes after her ‘keen runner’ dad, said: “Will has his own charity but this challenge is for Young Minds. I am just one of the people taking part in the challenge.

“I have been running since October 2016, when I signed up to the Midhurst Milers.

“The club is very community based and it has changed a lot recently.

“I have taken part in 116 parkruns, including the Chichester 10k.

“This challenge is to cycle, walk or run 5k every day. It’s quite a challenge but I know I can do it.”

On his fundraising page, Will, from Kingston, wrote: “We’ve already raised over £100 and not a foot has been run. Brilliant. Let’s try and smash this target.

“So many young people are affected by mental health issues. When I went through a rough patch, I found that running and being active helped me through it. With this event I hope to raise awareness and money for the work that Young Minds does.”

To donate, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/5kfeb.