Vertu Motors backs new Sunderland Fans Museum hub in Durham

Vertu Motors has deepened its backing of The Fans Museum in Sunderland, which will soon open a new hub in Durham, bringing its growing collection and outreach programmes to a wider audience.

Founded by Michael Ganley, the museum is home to an extensive display of football memorabilia, including match-worn shirts, trophies, medals, and personal keepsakes donated by fans.

But The Fans Museum is about more than just the game.

It also serves as a vehicle for social good, running community outreach programmes across the North East.

A Mercedes-Benz Vito Tourer donated by Vertu in 2020 has allowed the museum’s team of volunteers to take the collection on the road, visiting schools, care homes and community centres to promote mental wellbeing and tackle social isolation.

The museum also supports people through mental health and autism hubs and runs an inclusive football league for people with disabilities.

Mr Ganley said: “The support of Vertu has been crucial to our work in recent years, with the van allowing us to take our collection out to communities across the North East – and beyond.

“At an exciting time for The Fans Museum as we prepare to open our Durham site, we’re delighted to strengthen our ties with one of the leading businesses in the region as we continue our work to support people of all ages through the power of the beautiful game.”

As part of its latest backing, Vertu has funded the re-striping of the van and contributed financially to the operating costs of the new Durham hub at Prince Bishops Place.

Robert Forrester, chief executive of Vertu Motors, said: “The Fans Museum is not only a fantastic project for football fans, but also carries out vital community work nationwide.

“We are delighted to support Michael and the museum’s excellent team of volunteers, so they can continue to make a real difference for those who need it most.”

The museum is also developing memory boxes filled with football memorabilia from different eras.

These are designed to support older people, particularly those living with dementia, by sparking conversation and encouraging social interaction.