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This Manchester driving school teaches 10-year-olds to drive
Sam Ridgway -
10th January 2020
Sam Ridgway -
10th January 2020 News
A local Manc musician is taking on a Three Peaks challenge whilst carrying a full drum kit
Danny Jones
A local musician dubbed ‘The Manchester Drummer’ is set to face an incredible twist on the National Three Peaks Challenge this summer, as he’s set to carry a full drum kit the ENTIRE way.
This makes our weekly stairmaster workout look like a walk in the park.
Aaron Youd, a.k.a. ‘TMD’ is set to take on the incredible feat next month in the name of mental health, especially among men.
Having sadly seen half a dozen loved ones and peers take their own lives over the last three decades, he’s putting himself through the wringer to show that mountains are there to be climbed, and chip away at those still surviving stigmas, one step at a time.
Set to ascend Snowdon, Ben Nevis and Scafell Pike – Great Britain’s trio of tallest summits – all whilst carrying his trusty drum kit, he’ll be putting himself through 23 miles of walking and over 10,000 feet/3,000 metres of elevation all told.
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When we first came across his story, we assumed he meant the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge (still staggering at more than 5,200 ft), but it turns out he does nothing by half measures.
Having spent the best part of 27 years touring and performing across the UK and Europe, Aaron’s personal connection to mental health awareness and wellbeing has only deepened over that time, choosing to represent another native charity this August.
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Mandem Meetup, who also have a strong base across Greater Manchester, hold completely free group walks, along with talking events, hikes and other activities, like Dungeons and Dragons games, homeless outreach work, even gym sessions with fellow Manc community hero Javeno McLean.
Speaking ahead of starting his incredible journey, Aaron said: “This challenge is about much more than endurance. It’s about raising awareness for mental health, encouraging people to speak openly, and raising as much money as possible for a cause that affects so many lives every day.
“I’ve lost six friends and colleagues to suicide, and I know how important it is that people feel able to talk and ask for support. At each peak, I’ll be performing with the drums to spread the message that no one should struggle alone.
“Every step, every climb, and every beat played is dedicated to raising awareness and making a positive difference.”
As well as embarking on his voyage on behalf of Mandem Meetup, Aaron is also now working with a big brand soon to make a splash here in the region (nudge nudge, wink wink) who are helping back him on his challenge.
Following a chance encounter here in the city centre, he happened to meet Professor David Russell, who came across him busking, but also just happens to be the CEO of the upcoming Therme Manchester.
The £500 spa and resort set to open over in Trafford may still be a way off, currently scheduled for late 2028, but as part of their promotion ahead of establishing a base here in the North West, the talented percussionist was invited to be part of the official groundbreaking ceremony last September.
As for Aaron, he signs off by adding: “Music has always been my outlet and my way of connecting with people. If this challenge encourages even one person to open up about how they’re feeling or seek help, then every difficult step will be worth it.”
We wish him all the best and good luck with this superhuman and inspiring fundraising activity, not that he needs it – we have every faith he’s going to smash it.
You can donate to his GoFundMe page right HERE.
Whilst you’re here, we’re hoping the grassroots music community can also come together to support another locally-based artist who could do with some help.
Read more:
- Greater Manchester music community unites to pay for local band Spangled’s new tour van
- The best Northern music artists of the month | June 2026
- Liam Fray says ‘yes’ to Courteeners supporting Oasis on tour amid rumoured 2027 dates
For all the latest news, events and goings on in Greater Manchester, subscribe to The Manc newsletter HERE
Featured Images — Supplied (via Rule 5 PR)
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Firefighters continue to tackle moorland fire at Dovestones Reservoir amid ‘strong’ winds
Emily Sergeant
Firefighters are continuing to tackle a large moorland fire near Dovestones Reservoir.
After the blaze broke out on Saturday evening at the popular beauty spot in Oldham, prompting a major multi-agency response that has now entered its second day, fire crews from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) have been working around the clock in challenging conditions to contain the fire and prevent further spread across the moorland.
Specialist wildfire resources, command support units, drone technology, and partner agencies have also been deployed as operations continue across multiple sectors of the incident.
To make matters worse, ‘strong’ winds yesterday carried smoke across parts of Greater Manchester – with reports of haze and the smell of burning being received from areas well beyond the immediate vicinity of the fire.
Firefighters are currently tackling a moorland fire near Dovestones Reservoir.
— Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (@manchesterfire) July 11, 2026
Crews from across Greater Manchester, supported by specialist wildfire resources, are working to extinguish the fire and prevent it from spreading further.
Residents and visitors in the area are… pic.twitter.com/4j8iOINZ98
Residents affected by smoke are advised to keep windows and doors closed where possible.
GMFRS say firefighters ‘remain focused’ on limiting the spread of the blaze while protecting the surrounding landscape and supporting ongoing operations in ‘difficult’ terrain.
“Members of the public are asked to avoid the area where possible to allow emergency services and partner agencies to carry out their work safely,” GMFRS said in a statement as firefighters remained at the scene overnight.
As operations continue, the fire service has issued another safety warning, urging people not to use disposable barbecues, light campfires or set off fireworks on or near moorland.
Read more:
- Fire service urges Greater Manchester public to ‘act responsibly’ as heatwave continues
- Urgent open water safety appeal issued after teen tragically dies in Dovestone Reservoir
- Police appeal after woman is killed by driving wrong way down M62 near Rochdale
“In the current dry conditions, even a small spark can quickly develop into a significant fire,” their plea concluded.
Featured Image – GMFRS
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