The charity event will raise vital funds to help tackle homelessness in the city
Greater Manchester Mayor’s Charity is calling teams from across the city to use their strength with one of its most exciting annual fundraising events, back for its third year.
The ‘Bus Pull’ will take place on Tuesday 5 August at Manchester Central, where teams of five from local businesses in the city-region will go head-to-head to see who can pull a single-decker bus 30 metres the fastest - all while raising a minimum of £500 per team to enter.
Funds raised from the event will support the charity’s flagship scheme, A Bed Every Night, designed to tackle homelessness in the city. Since 2019, the scheme has funded over 87,000 nights of accommodation, providing a safe place to sleep for people who would otherwise be sleeping on our streets. Just £32 covers the cost of a good night’s sleep. But it’s not just a bed for the night - it’s a warm welcome, a hot meal, and wraparound support to help people move into more stable accommodation.
The bar has been set high with last year’s event raising over £30,000 between 46 teams - the winning team pulling their bus in just 24.088 seconds.
On the day, as well as some great entertainment from the teams participating (and the chance for a free massage after the exercise), there will be live music and DJ sets from XI Records and Manchester DJs.
Classic fairground games, including bowling and an 11-foot-high strength tester, will keep the atmosphere buzzing. Spectator entry is free, but everyone is encouraged to make small donations at the door and for the games to help raise as much money as possible.
Next door, Junction will be offering 50% off draft beer and cider for participants that successfully pull the bus, and if you head over to Nell’s (Kampus or Northern Quarter), bus-pullers can enjoy a free slice of pizza to refuel with.
Mayor of Greater Manchester and Patron of Greater Manchester Mayor’s Charity, Andy Burnham, has championed the cause and will be joining on the day.
Mayor Andy Burnham said: "The Bus Pull perfectly captures what Greater Manchester is all about: determination, community spirit, and stepping up for those who need support. The money raised will support people through A Bed Every Night, a scheme that’s changing lives every single day.
“To everyone thinking of signing up a team, get signed up! I’ve pulled one of those buses before – it's not easy but it is worth it. I’m looking forward to seeing just how much we raise, and just how fast you can all pull that bus. What a way to show how powerful our community can be when we all pull together.”
Tim Heatley, Chair of Greater Manchester Mayor’s Charity, said: “Now in its third year, the Bus Pull has become a fan favourite on our fundraising calendar, and it’s easy to see why. It’s bold, it’s brilliant, and it brings people together from across Greater Manchester to take on a challenge that’s as fun as it is impactful.
“Every donation helps provide real, practical support for people facing homelessness, through emergency accommodation, as well as the guidance and care needed to build a path towards a more secure future.”
Think your team has what it takes? Sign up now.
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