Avanti West Coast employee to attempt half marathon for life-saving community cause
Avanti West Coast employee, Mike Lowe, is running Wilmslow Half Marathon in aid of a life-saving cause in the community.
• Avanti West Coast employee, Mike Lowe, is running the Wilmslow Half Marathon
• Fundraising efforts inspired by the lives that have been saved by defibrillators
• Donations will support running costs of defibs in Glossopdale
An Avanti West Coast employee is preparing to take on a half marathon to raise money for a cause that will save lives in the community.
Learning and Development Manager, Mike Lowe, 55, will be running Wilmslow Half Marathon in aid of Glossopdale Community Defibs - a community campaign that buys and installs defibrillators in the local area.
It was established after one of Mike’s closest friends was saved by a defibrillator in 2022. Since then, 15 devices have been placed in sports centres, pubs and high streets across the area – resulting in one person’s life being saved.
Inspired by the difference the campaign has made, Mike has chosen to take up an old pastime by joining his son, Edward, 32, to run along the roads of the Cheshire town to raise money for the maintenance and upkeep of the 15 devices.
Before joining the railway, Mike competed in running events across the UK. Fifteen years after doing his first half marathon for charity, he wanted to undertake another by supporting a cause that he is passionate about.
The £1,500 fundraising target will support the running costs of all 15 defibs for a year. So far, Mike has raised £1,000 and received the backing of his team based at Avanti West Coast’s Talent Academy in Crewe - where colleagues receive training. They have created a giant defibrillator cabinet to encourage donations.
“I’ve seen first-hand the difference a defibrillator can make. My friend is still here because a defib saved his life,” said Mike.
“I’m proud of the community’s efforts to make the area safer and want the devices to remain accessible so local people can provide instant first aid for those who need it. I hope my fundraising challenge will support this and would like to thank everyone for their donations – they will make a massive difference!” added Mike.
To donate to Mike’s fundraising efforts and support Glossopdale Community Defibs, visit: Fundraiser by Michael Lowe : Heart to Heart Glossop Defibrillators
ENDS
Contact Information
Notes to editors
Main image: Mike Lowe, Learning and Development Manager at Avanti West Coast, is preparing to run Wilmslow Half Marathon and has received the backing of his colleagues at The Talent Academy in Crewe.
About Avanti West Coast
Avanti West Coast, operator of intercity rail services on the West Coast Main Line, is a joint venture between FirstGroup and Trenitalia, delivering a cleaner, greener railway that drives the West Coast forward.
We’re on a mission to revolutionise train travel. Our refurbed Pendolinos returned to the rails in June 2024 following a £117m investment programme that’s delivered the best in class comfort. Known as the UK’s hardest working fleet, all 56 of these iconic trains have been transformed and now boast better seats, improved lighting, new interior carpets, customer-friendly passenger information screens, additional luggage space, power points at every seat and refurbished toilets.
Our new Evero fleet was introduced in June 2024 and will replace our Voyagers. Built by Hitachi, the 23-strong fleet, consisting of 10 seven-carriage electric trains and 13 five-carriage bi-modes, will serve routes from London to the Midlands, Chester, North Wales and the North West, leading to a substantial cut in carbon emissions with an increase in seats, and offering improved comfort. Quieter and roomier, with more reliable Wi-Fi, wireless charging for electrical devices and a real-time customer information system, these new trains are the result of a £350m investment in sustainable travel.
We’re tackling climate change wherever we can, from reducing energy and water use to training drivers in eco-driving techniques and sourcing food and drink from local suppliers. Our goal is to be net zero carbon by 2031. We’re on track.
For the latest news, visit the Avanti West Coast Media Centre: https://newsdesk.avantiwestcoast.co.uk/
Press Office: 0845 000 3333