Readers' donations help to smash £50,000 mark for the Christmas appeal

The supporters and participants of CoolTan Arts outside Maudsley psychiatric hospital in south London for the Largactyl Shuffle, a sponsored walk run by the charity. Andrea Abril for the Guardian Photograph: Andrea Abril/the Guardian

Good morning readers!

There’s plenty of weekend action to tell you about today:

Ten days into the appeal and you’re being as generous as ever.

You have now donated £47,565.14 which with estimated gift aid and match funding brings the amount raised for the appeal so far to a running total of £58,529.39

This is incredible. Thank you so much. You’re keeping us inspired and motivated – possibly even more than this man is

This is a motivated Santa. He’s taking part in the annual Santa Speedo Run in Boston, Massachusetts. Photograph: Brian Synders/REUTERS

If you would still like to donate, you can do so here.

You’ve been showing your support for the two appeal charities who appeared in the Guardian and Observer this weekend

CoolTan Arts are the do-it-yourself creative community where art overcomes mental distress

charlize

06 December 2014 7:29pm

What a wonderful initiative!

Every town/city needs one.

It’s great to hear from participants themselves

auntierotter

06 December 2014 11:10pm

I have been a CoolTan participant for a couple of years and have found the art sessions absolutely liberating. I was rubbish at art at school and in the Women Make Art sessions I gained the confidence to try out a number of media - drawing, print making, collage and even using my interest in cross stitch to express myself. As so many of the mental health services are savagely cut, places like CoolTan become vital

Lorelei100

07 December 2014 9:08am

This comment has been chosen by Guardian staff because it contributes to the debate

Cooltan Arts is one of the most vital, vibrant, necessary organisations in London - it turns people's lives around, increases confidence, improves well being, and gives people hope.

MAC-UK are the charity enabling young offenders to get a fresh chance, one song at a time

"That's why I'm off to the library." The quote that's made my Sunday @macukcharity @charlie_a @mashley86 @guardian http://t.co/pqqWLU2pmo

— Sinem Cakir (@tellsinem) December 7, 2014

And it’s inspired Care and Support Minister Norman Lamb MP to donate

@charlie_a @macukcharity thanks for alerting me! Great article! I will be donating!

— Norman Lamb (@normanlamb) December 7, 2014

That’s all for now but keep your eye on the blog for plenty more from our journalists, readers and the charities this week.

Have you been affected or inspired by the charities in this year’s appeal? Share your thoughts on what you’re interested in and what we should be talking about in the comments below