ALMOST £20,000 has been raised by Transport for Greater Manchester for two local charities.

Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, staff raised £19,783.71 for the Greater Manchester-based branch of Bone Cancer Research Trust (BCRT) and Manchester Mind.

BCRT was chosen as one the charity in memory of the life and fundraising efforts of Jude Anderton, whose father Paul works within the organisation’s Road Safety team.

Before he died, 12-year-old Jude dedicated his remaining months to raising money for BCRT to fund crucial research into the disease

Paul said: “I would like to thank everyone at TfGM who has helped to raise this fantastic amount for The Bone Cancer Research Trust in memory of my beloved Jude.

“To raise such an amount especially during the pandemic is a real testament to the work and dedication of the fundraising committee and the generosity of everyone at TfGM who took part in all the fundraising activities.

“I am also grateful to those colleagues who have adopted BCRT as one of their personal charities and who continue to raise vital funds for the charity.”

BCRT continues to fight for better research, treatments and outcomes for patients of bone cancer.

Kate Connor, Community Fundraising Manager for BCRT said: “We can’t thank everyone at TfGM enough for their amazing fundraising in memory of Jude Anderton over the last three years.

“They have overcome such trying circumstances to raise enough to fund an absolutely incredible 330 hours of bone cancer research and it could well be their fundraising that leads to the breakthrough we all so desperately hope comes soon for patients like Jude.”

Manchester Mind has provided mental health support for all Mancunians for more than 30 years, while also offering mental wellbeing training for businesses and community groups.

Last year Manchester Mind worked with TfGM on an awareness campaign on Metrolink with posters appearing on trams and stops urging passengers to look after their wellbeing.

Joanna Huddart, Fundraising Manager at Manchester Mind said: “Manchester Mind is proud to have received TfGM’s support over the last three years, not only through fantastic fundraising efforts but also the enthusiasm of colleagues to attend our onsite mindfulness sessions, the sharing of mental health awareness campaign news, the circulation of free Mind wellbeing guides, and last year’s inspired TfGM tram campaign.

“Whilst we’ve not been able to come together in recent times, we’ve certainly achieved a lot in solidarity and community spirit, and for this our charity could not be more grateful. Thank you for being there for our local mental health services and the people of Manchester.”

TfGM’s chosen charities for the coming year are Emmeline’s Pantry and The Christie Charitable Fund, with the partnerships running until November 2023.