Three friends, one finish line: Northamptonshire trio raise £2,825 for Mind after Great North Run

You know that feeling when a plan becomes a purpose? Three mates from Northamptonshire laced up, showed up, and ran 13.1 miles in Newcastle—turning sweat into support for local mental health services.

Why they ran (and why it matters)

Head of Business Support at VMS Ltd, Kev Garfield, led the charge with friends Richard Crook and Brian Jukes, completing the Great North Run on Sunday 7 September and raising £2,825 for Northamptonshire Mind. The spark was personal: their “little running group” came together to support Richard after the loss of his twin brother in 2023, aged just 45. Grief is heavy. Running together helped carry it.

Kev put it plainly: “With the help of a strong network, alongside local businesses including VMS Ltd, BACA, BTN automotive, JW Signs and D&H Commercial Repairs Ltd, we successfully completed the Great North Run and have raised almost £3,000 for Northamptonshire Mind.

“Our little running group was established to provide support to Richard following the loss of his twin brother, who sadly passed away in 2023 aged just 45.
“It’s important to recognise the impact of mental health on many individuals, particularly as one in four people experience related challenges, So for the three of us, the opportunity to assist others and unite businesses for the benefit of the community has been remarkable.”

Friendship as a lifeline

At Northamptonshire Mind, the message landed with warmth. Community Services Manager Paul Marshall said: “We’re incredibly honoured that Kev, Brian and Richard chose to support Northamptonshire Mind. Donations like theirs make a real difference, helping us be there when people need us most.

“Their run is also a powerful reminder of the role friendship plays in men’s mental health. Too often men struggle in silence, but by looking out for one another we can change that. Our Community Mental Health Hubs provide a safe space where people can find connection, understanding and share their experiences.

“Every step they ran helps break down stigma and ensure more people get the support they deserve.”

The power of local backing

This wasn’t just three runners—it was a small army of supporters, from family and friends to local firms including VMS Ltd, BACA, BTN Automotive, JW Signs and D&H Commercial Repairs Ltd. When businesses rally behind a cause, you feel it across the community (and yes, in tired legs the next day).

Want to help?

If this story nudges you (even a little), you can still add your support to the trio’s fundraising: www.justgiving.com/page/kev-garfield-1?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=EM. And if you or someone you love could use a listening ear, find services, hubs and support at www.northamptonshiremind.org.uk.

Takeaway

You don’t have to run 13.1 miles to make a difference. Check in on a friend. Share a link. Drop a donation if you can. Small steps, big shift.