For the last three years, Manchester has stepped up and got beloved Big Issue vendor Colin - to Blackpool for a break. He loves it here, he used to live here and he likes nothing more than taking in the sea air and eating fish and chips on the beach.

Colin is a grafter, he works all hours in the cold, rain and snow and hot weather (when we get it) and he lives for the interaction he gets from regular and new cusomers/friends.

But fewer people are buying the mags and there is less footfall due to the cost of living crisis. And his bills, like everyone else's have gone up. But once he goes to Blackpool for a few days on the National Express coach, he begins his great escape and it helps him to wind down. He used to pay for this trip himself but he cannot afford it. And that is where you have all delivered for the last three years.

Colin grew up in care and the Manchester community have become his family. And he is well known in Blackpool, he always stays at the same place and goes to a local bar where everyone knows his name. Can you help us to get him there? Any amount, however small will get him one step closer to the place he loves.

Colin has been battling a chest infection on and off over the past few months,due to being outside in all weathers. He needs a break.

If we can raise money for Colin to get to the coast for the fourth year running, it will be amazing just to see his face. As it gives him so much joy and happiness.

Thanks for reading and please share this story to help us get there. Read more about Colin's previous trip to Blackpool here.  

**Any extra money raised will go to Big Issue North to help them support vendors like Colin**