Teams from Macclesfield-based Metro Rod and Metro Plumb have successfully raised £24,585 through their One Metro: Miles for a Mission charity challenge. The nationwide fundraising initiative, which saw employees walking, running and cycling in the lead-up to the annual conference at Celtic Manor, will see the total being split evenly between two charities: FABB (based in Norwich) and Weldmar Hospicecare (in Dorset).
FABB supports local families and individuals struggling with food poverty and insufficiency, and vulnerable women and domestic abuse victims in Norwich. The fundraising also honours the memory of former franchisee Jean O’Brien, whose passion for this cause inspired the challenge. Weldmar Hospicecare provides vital end-of-life care across Dorset and has strong connections to the Metro Rod/Metro Plumb family through previous franchisee Martin Anderson and his family in Bournemouth.
The challenge was delivered in partnership with the conference charity sponsor Capital Fleet Solutions. In a standout effort, Capital Fleet’s Head of Business, Chris McCauley, ran 120 miles to the conference venue at Celtic Manor. Completing the challenge in just over 24 hours to raise awareness and donations.
Stephen Chambers, Chief Operating Officer of Metro Rod & Metro Plumb, said:
“Our One Metro: Miles for a Mission challenge has brought our teams together in a powerful way. Every mile walked, cycled or run has helped raise awareness and funds for two charities that stand for community, care and support. Reaching a total of £24,585 is a fantastic achievement and reflects the commitment of everyone involved. We’re proud to stand alongside FABB and Weldmar Hospicecare and to support their vital work.”
Fiona Hansford, Weldmar Hospicecare, said:
“We’re enormously grateful to Metro Rod and Metro Plumb for selecting Weldmar Hospicecare for this fundraising support. The donation will make a real difference in enabling us to continue providing specialist, compassionate care for local adults with a life-limiting illness, and support for their loved ones at the most difficult of times.”
Carol McWhinnie, FABB, said:
“FABB is extremely thankful to Metro Rod and Metro Plumb for their generous support through this challenge. Our work to support struggling families and vulnerable women and domestic abuse victims in Norwich is only possible because of people who care, and this donation will help us continue our mission in Jean O’Brien’s memory.”
Barry Wilson, Director of Capital Fleet Solutions, said: “We were delighted to sponsor the Miles for a Mission challenge and to take part alongside Metro Rod. Chris McCauley’s 120-mile run is a testament to the spirit of the event and the determination of everyone involved. It’s a privilege to support two charities that are making such a difference in local communities.”
The One Metro: Miles for a Mission initiative underscores Metro Rod’s commitment to giving back across its geographic network — from their base in Macclesfield to all four corners of the UK — and highlights how collective effort can build meaningful impact in local communities.
