Did you know travelling the entire length of Greater Manchester’s Metrolink network takes up to eight hours? So how about travelling across three tram systems, in three cities, all in one day?
On Thursday 20 July, Chris Holmes, Metrolink Asset Management Technical Assistant at Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM), successfully completed this challenge in order to raise money for two charities.
Transport enthusiast Chris set off on his light-rail voyage at 3.19am taking in all 93 stops on the vast Metrolink network in just under 11 hours
He then headed to the other side of the Pennines to travel on the South Yorkshire Supertram network, before completing his trip on the Nottingham Express Transit at 00.54.
Chris’ transport challenge took him 21 hours 35 minutes and covered 100 miles. He undertook the mammoth ‘tramathon’ to raise money for Alzheimer’s Society and Macmillan, TfGM’s corporate charities.
On completing his mission, Chris said: “It’s significant that the challenge took place in the week we celebrate 25 years since Metrolink’s official opening by the Queen. I’m delighted to have been able to support this anniversary and the work of TfGM’s two corporate charities.
“I couldn’t resist the temptation to include Supertram as part of the challenge as this is where I started my transport career as a conductor.”
Mandy West, Macmillan, commented: “We absolutely love the unique ways our supporters raise funds for Macmillan and Chris’ challenge is a fantastic example of this. At Macmillan, we know that cancer can affect everything and we are here to help people live life, no matter what. It is only through working with organisations like TfGM and the support of individuals like Chris that we can achieve this and we are so grateful for their support.”
Alzheimer’s Society Community Fundraiser for Greater Manchester Steph Larkin, said: “It’s wonderful that Chris gave his time to raise funds to support Alzheimer’s Society. These funds will go towards helping us provide information and support, improve care, fund research, and create lasting change for people affected by dementia.
“Dementia devastates lives, but dementia won’t win. Until the day we find a cure we will be here for anyone affected by dementia, where they are, whatever they’re going through. We need more people like Chris to join us now and unite against dementia.”
