New bike track opens in Delamere Park in memory of young Max

A new cycle track dedicated to a young boy who loved to ride has opened in his memory at Delamere Park.

Named after Max-Rimmer Chambers, Max-Trax now stands to be a vibrant and safe community spot to be used by all.

It was created through the ideas and feedback from local families, schools, and residents. Park goers who enjoy roller skating or riding bikes and scooters, like Max, will now be able take on the specially designed track.

It features a purpose‑built pump track that welcomes all ages and abilities. Expert-led coaching sessions and cycling education take place on site, alongside a dedicated repair workshop and maintenance cabins. The entire space is designed to be inclusive, making it accessible for wheelchairs, pushchairs, and scooters.

Openshaw residents, community leaders and council officials – including Manchester City Council Leader Bev Craig – gathered to see the track officially opened in a touching ceremony to remember him. Max’s parents – mother Kerrie Rimmer and father Colin Chambers – were both in attendance following their commitment to fundraising in his name to make Max Trax possible.

Max’s family have generated an outstanding amount of funding through a mix of community events, a Crowdfunding campaign, external grants, and a successful bid to British Cycling’s Places to Ride Fund – a legacy programme designed to tackle inequalities in cycling and expand opportunities for under‑represented groups.

Manchester City Council has contributed £166k in capital funding to match the campaign’s efforts. With additional backing from Manchester Active, Step Up MCR, Access Sport, Landscape Architect Elsie Josland, and specialist track builders VeloSolutions, the vision for MaxTrax has now become a reality.

Councillor Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “Delamere Park has always been at the heart of this community, and today it becomes home to something truly extraordinary. MaxTrax is far more than a cycling hub, it is a testament to the strength, compassion, and determination of a community united by love and purpose.

“Manchester City Council is proud to have invested funding, matching the incredible amount raised by Kerrie, Colin, and the MaxTrax campaign, whose hard work and passion have brought us to this milestone. With the support of partners including Step Up MCR, British Cycling, Access Sport, Landscape Architect Elsie Josland, and specialist track builders VeloSolutions, this shared dream has now become a reality.

“What has been truly wonderful for me to hear is just how busy the track has been since opening mid-December. From morning until night, riders have been out enjoying the space, children, teenagers, adults, families, beginners, and experienced cyclists alike. People are not only riding, but talking, connecting, and building a sense of community that reflects exactly what MaxTrax was created for.”

Kerrie Rimmer, Max’s mother, said: “Max’s love of all things wheels inspired me to build something for his friends to remember him by and enjoy, along with building a legacy. The opportunity to access excellent facilities in our parts of the community for people that have small gardens or no green space, is so important. It’s amazing to see the kids riding the track. I love seeing families using the track, getting out in the fresh air, and not being stuck indoors. Thanks for all the input and all the fundraising – everyone’s hard work has really paid off.”