Super dad takes to Buxton streets as Ironman raising money for NHS

Andy Baker, 41, is donning the famous costume for special appearances in and around Buxton raising money for the NHS battling Covid-19.

Machine setter Andy - who left excited kids in Fairfield open-mouthed when he rocketed in on a surprise patrol - will be using his daily exercise to check in around different areas of Buxton.

His next appearance will be in Harpur Hill on Saturday from 1pm.

Proud Marvel-mad dad Andy told how during the Fairfield show his children Nathan, 12, and Tyler, 8, appeared alongside him dressed as Black Panther and Rocket Raccoon - both ‘loving every minute of it’.

Speaking about the first appearance Andy said: “I have to say it was amazing - kids dressed up and waving with excitement and families walking around looking for Ironman.

“People came out to see us, have a chat and take a photo while keeping their distance.

“I was nervous to start with and didn't know what reaction I would get but people were so friendly and it was lovely to see happy, smiley faces - it was a very positive reaction and I've had some very kind messages off family and friends.”

Super dad Andy described how he was inspired to make his own Ironman suit by his family’s love of Marvel.

He then went on to buy a more durable version - specially adapted to fit him.

Andy said: “I've only worn the suit once before and that was for my son's birthday party.”

The costumed coronavirus crusader told how he was stirred into action after seeing how another fundraiser – Stockport Spiderman - had raised thousands for NHS Charities Together.

He said: “What Stockport spiderman is doing in Stockport and that area is unbelievable - so I needed to dig my suit out of the loft and get out there.”

Andy is making his superhero appearances in support of Stockport Spiderman - asking all donations be made to the same crowdfunding page.

At the time of writing Stockport Spiderman had raised over £32,000 - to donate click HERE.

A message from the Editor:

Thank you for reading this story on our website. While I have your attention, I also have an important request to make of you.

In order for us to continue to provide high quality and trusted local news on this free-to-read site, I am asking you to also please purchase a copy of our newspaper.

Our journalists are highly trained and our content is independently regulated by IPSO to some of the most rigorous standards in the world. But being your eyes and ears comes at a price. So we need your support more than ever to buy our newspapers during this crisis.

With the coronavirus lockdown having a major impact on many of our local valued advertisers - and consequently the advertising that we receive - we are more reliant than ever on you helping us to provide you with news and information by buying a copy of our newspaper.

Thank you

Nancy Fielder, editor