Charity runner named Sefton’s Charity Champion after incredible Merseyrail challenge

Alex Rigby’s determination recently took him on an extraordinary journey across the Merseyrail network, all in the name of charity.

Running to an astonishing 37 different Merseyrail train stations in a single day, Alex covered a remarkable 56 miles, raising an impressive sum of £27,004.29 for Centre 56, a charity providing essential care for children affected by domestic abuse or crisis situations.

Alex has rightfully earned the title of Sefton Charity Champion of the Year at the 2024 Pride Of Sefton Awards.

Alex started his run at Hunts Cross station and then ran through south Liverpool, Liverpool city centre, up through Sefton, past Southport, then to Ormsirk, Maghull, Kirkby, Walton and finally Kirkdale.

Alex, who lives in Bootle, said:

“I wanted to do a challenge that was unique. I was getting the train one day and started wondering how long it would take to run to all the stations.

“I’m delighted that along the way we’ve been able to build this relationship with Merseyrail, who have been a fantastic support.”

Alex was joined along the route by supporters and representatives from local businesses, who completed the run in a relay, as well as friends and colleagues.

Senior Train Driver, Mark Scott from Merseyrail also took part.

Sally Ralston BEM, Community Involvement Manager at Merseyrail, said:

“We’re all delighted that Alex has received this recognition from the Pride of Sefton Awards. He has done amazingly well to raise so much money this year already, and Merseyrail has been proud to be able to support all the efforts by the team at Centre 56.

“Working with communities across the Merseyrail network is an important part of what we do. Merseyrail has a unique position within the region to be able to reach out and help organisations and charities that make a real difference.”

Merseyrail has chosen Centre 56 as one of its Charities of the Year. This means it will continue to work in partnership following the run, benefitting from staff fundraising and volunteering initiatives. Three other charities are also working with Merseyrail; Rescue Me Animal Sanctuary, Blackburne House and Parkinson’s Wirral.