Evertonian fundraiser Michael Cullen – better known as Speedo Mick – is set to be become a 'Liverpool Citizen of Honour'.
 
The award formally recognises individuals who have made a significant, exceptional or unique contribution to enriching the image of the city of Liverpool and its citizens.
 
Speedo Mick has captured the hearts of the nation over the past couple of months after attracting global media attention following his 78 day, 1,000 mile trek from John O’Groats to Lands’ End.
 
Despite battling through storms Ciara and Dennis – clad only in his swimming trunks and hat – the 55-year-old completed his epic challenge, smashing his fundraising target and raising more than £350,000 for good causes.
 
Mick's route allowed him to continue supporting his beloved Everton, including at the Merseyside derby at Anfield where he bumped into Blues chairman Bill Kenwright, who offered his encouragement and a significant donation.
 
“I told him I’d done my calf and he said I could come to Finch Farm to get some physio on it," Mick said.

“He put an extra few hundred quid in the bucket, too. He even wanted to give me his coat, but I was saying, ‘I don’t want it - that would be cheating!’

“Everton have always been fantastic with me, though, helping me with my fundraising around Goodison Park. They’ve allowed me to be myself and to feel part of the Club.”

Everton were never far away from Mick’s mind throughout his mammoth journey and he was also in the crowd for the Club’s 1-0 home victory over Brighton and Hove Albion earlier this month and the thrilling 3-2 away win at Watford.
 
During his visit to USM Finch Farm to receive treatment on an injured calf, Mick met first-team players including Club captain Seamus Coleman, as well as manager Carlo Ancelotti, who wished him a speedy recovery before he embarked on the remaining 500 miles.

Everton ambassador Graham Stuart also took Mick to visit kitman Jimmy Martin, who provided him with Everton training wear for when he wasn’t on his walk.  
 
Evertonians have followed Mick's progress on social media and the Club is proud to have backed and promoted his efforts through his Go Fund Me page.

Duncan Ferguson, Alex Iwobi and Richarlison all recorded messages to urge Speedo on during the final days of his challenge and congratulated him on his amazing achievement once he crossed the finish line at Lands’ End. 
 
The money raised is going to Mick’s new charitable CIC (Community Interest Company) ‘Leave the Light On’, which helps disadvantaged young people, together with mental health and wellbeing projects.  
 
After publicly talking about how he has overcome his own struggles, Mick’s story has inspired many people across the country and, coupled with his fundraising exploits, seen him nominated as a ‘Liverpool Citizen of Honour’.
 
Well done Mick from everyone at Everton Football Club.

It's not too late to donate - visit Speedo Mick's Go Fund Me page here.