Big Issue, bigger heart: Manchester comes together for Colin

For the fourth year running, the people of Manchester have proven just how much they care about one of the city’s most beloved faces—Big Issue vendor Colin.

Through a wave of kindness, generosity, and plenty of shares online, the community has once again rallied together to raise funds, ensuring Colin gets his much-needed trip to Blackpool.

And this time, they went even further, raising £200 for Colin and an additional £100 for Big Issue North to help others just like him!

The man, the myth, the Manchester legend

If you’ve ever walked down Oxford Road, chances are you’ve met Colin. He’s been selling The Big Issue in all weather—rain, shine, and everything in between—always ready with a smile and a chat. He’s become an integral part of the city’s fabric, not just to customers but to friends, actors, and even politicians.

The annual fundraiser to get Colin to Blackpool started because, like many hardworking people, he needed a break.

He loves Blackpool. He used to live there, and every year, a few days by the sea, taking in the fresh air, eating fish and chips, and catching up with old friends, recharges his spirits. However, with the cost of living crisis hitting hard and fewer magazines being sold, his dream trip was slipping away—until Manchester stepped in, yet again.

The power of community

Glenn Meads, who set up the fundraiser, shared the exciting news: “I’ve just dropped off Colin’s money. He now has enough to take care of his needs and go on holiday. He was desperate to go away this Friday because he’d been ill and needed a break. He looked really tired, but when I dropped the money off, it cheered him up. He’s going to book his National Express trip and go.”

The campaign caught fire, with people across the city chipping in, sharing Colin’s story, and making sure he got his annual trip. The sheer number of people who reached out to say they knew Colin was staggering. As Glenn put it, “I think he knows hundreds of people across the city.”

Colin, the star of Manchester

Colin’s connections stretch beyond the everyday crowd. He’s known to actors, musicians, and even Mayor Andy Burnham, who once tried to outsell him in a Big Issue challenge but couldn’t keep up! Theatre-goers will remember the time Colin used to have a cigarette with Will Young when the singer was starring in a play at HOME. Will even signed 20 copies of The Big Issue for Colin, which he then sold for £10 each—always the savvy businessman!

The magic of giving

It’s been a tough year for everyone, and yet, despite the financial struggles, Manchester’s heart has come through again. Not only will Colin get his trip, but Big Issue North will receive £200 to continue supporting vendors in similar situations.

The beauty of this fundraiser isn’t just in the money raised, but in the kindness and camaraderie it represents. Colin isn’t just a vendor—he’s family to Manchester. And thanks to this incredible community, he’ll soon be on his way to Blackpool, breathing in that sea air, eating his fish and chips, and enjoying the break he truly deserves.

You can donate to Colin and Big Issue by clicking here