2026 Finalist – Kerrie Rimmer
Kerrie proved that even the deepest loss can inspire lasting hope.
When Kerrie Rimmer lost her young son Max in a tragic accident, her world shattered. Instead of allowing grief to define her future, she chose to transform that heartbreak into a lasting legacy that is now bringing hope, opportunity and joy to an entire community.
Kerrie was once a busy working mum running a perfume franchise in the Trafford Centre, raising her beloved son Max with her partner Colin. Max was an adventurous and joyful little boy who loved anything with wheels, especially his BMX bike. After years of struggling with endometriosis, Max was considered a miracle child, deeply treasured by his parents.
In May 2017, tragedy struck without warning.
While visiting his grandfather’s home, Max was reaching for a sweet when a marble fireplace surround unexpectedly fell, causing a fatal head injury. The loss of their only child devastated Kerrie and her family. Hundreds of people attended Max’s funeral, forming a powerful convoy of vintage cars and motorbikes through the streets in tribute to the little boy who had touched so many lives.
During unimaginable grief, the generosity of the community began to inspire something extraordinary. Donations made in Max’s memory encouraged Kerrie to create a legacy that would honour her son’s spirit and love of cycling. Determined that something good should come from Max’s life, she founded Max Trax CIC, a community-led cycling hub in Openshaw, Manchester.
From an empty area in Delamere Park, Kerrie began building a vision: a safe, inclusive space where young people and families could come together, learn new skills and enjoy the freedom Max loved so much.
Her determination has been remarkable. Through tireless fundraising, partnership building and sheer perseverance, Kerrie has secured almost £400,000 in funding from organisations including NatWest, Manchester City Council, Sport England, British Cycling and local supporters.
Today, Max Trax is becoming a vibrant community hub featuring a cycle repair centre, toddler bike area, an all-wheels pump track and welcoming green spaces for families and young people. The project offers far more than a place to ride bikes – it provides opportunities for children to build confidence, develop practical skills and connect with their community.
Kerrie has also ensured the project reflects the spirit of community collaboration.
Through the Probation Service’s Community Payback programme, individuals serving court sentences have helped build and maintain the site, clearing pathways, repairing bikes, constructing flower beds and creating dog-friendly spaces in the park. For many involved, the project has offered a meaningful chance to give back while learning valuable skills.
Completed earlier this year, Max Trax stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, compassion and community spirit.
For Kerrie, the project is about more than cycling – it is about turning love into action and ensuring Max’s adventurous spirit continues to inspire others. She often reflects that Max would be “on top of the world” seeing the joy and connection the project is bringing to children and families across the community.
Kerrie will be sharing her story at the 34th annual Inspiring Women Awards on 15th May 2026 at The Lowry Hotel. More details here