Neil the ‘Bus Walker’ continues to raise thousands for local food banks on epic charity challenge

Neil ‘The Bus Walker’ Atherton is returning to Liverpool City Region’s streets this summer to raise vital funds and collect donations for local food banks.

Pushing his distinctive double decker-themed shopping trolley, the Arriva instructor from Widnes will pound the pavements every weekend during the summer holidays – following some of the region’s best-known bus routes.

Having already raised an incredible £20,000 for national food bank charity The Trussel Trust in previous efforts, Neil – who was a recipient of a British Empire Medal in the 2023 New Year’s Honours list – is now focusing his energy closer to home, supporting food banks throughout the Liverpool City Region.

His commitment is already making a huge impact, with more than £6,000 raised this year alone, following an impressive 50-mile walk in a single day in April. That epic journey saw him traverse from Southport to Runcorn, making stops at six depots including Bootle, Green Lane, St Helens, and Speke.

Now, for ‘round two’ during the critical school holiday period when food banks face their highest demand, Neil is back on his feet, and he’s not alone! He’s brought along his custom-made ‘Bus Walker 1’ shopping trolley, which he plans to weigh down with generous food donations collected along his routes.

Neil’s inspiring mission was sparked by a powerful documentary on child food poverty in the north of England, which highlighted the struggles of families relying on food banks during school breaks.

“As a parent, I believe no child should ever go to bed hungry – yet sadly, this is the reality for many families in our region today,” says Neil.

“I’m just one person with a trolley, but every step I take is about showing people they’re not alone. If you’re able to donate – even just a tin or a pound – it goes a long way.”

Speaking about Neil’s amazing efforts, Cllr Steve Foulkes, Chair of the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Transport Committee, said:

“People like Neil are what make our city region so special.

“Literally going that extra mile, and some, to help those less fortunate should be celebrated – and what a great way to do it, mixing his profession and passion for buses covering some of our best-known routes.

“I’d encourage anyone who can to donate and help support such a worthy cause.”

Neil’s upcoming walking schedule promises to cover significant ground:

• 26 July: Route 79C from Murdishaw to Hough Green
• 9 August: Route 86A from John Lennon Airport to Liverpool
• 16 August: Route 27 Liverpool Circular
• 23 August: Route 12 from Rhyl to Llandudno
• 30 August: Route 10A from St Helens to Liverpool

Several local food banks are rallying behind Neil, with representatives joining him for parts of his journey. These include the St Helens Food Pantry, Widnes Food Bank, New Beginnings Improving Lives, and both North and South branches of the Trussel Trust.

Neil’s incredible year of fundraising will culminate in festive Santa Dashes across the Liverpool City Region and Cheshire, with all proceeds being distributed among the food banks he’s championed along his routes.

You can support Neil’s vital fundraiser and help feed local families by donating online.

The Guide Liverpool Heroes will take place this November and you can nominate your local hero HERE.