Letter: My city of Sheffield, our city, simply the best

How does one thank so many of my friends and our great citizens of the best city in England? My city of Sheffield, our city, simply the best.

I have met so many. The stories they tell me. So many stories are heartbreaking, you have to have a heart of stone not to be moved by them, but each and every one of them is behind me in my aim to raise that magic million for Macmillan. Everyone is so supportive. The Blades and the Owls fans are 100, no 1000 per cent behind me to raise that magic million. Together we will do it.

I wish each and every one of you a very healthy, happy and prosperous New Year.

2019 was a great year for me. I managed to achieve 1,000 races, marathons, half-marathons, 10-milers, and 10ks.

One question I am always asked by the radio, The Star and TV is who is the most important person I have ever met. Okay, you can’t get higher than the Queen, a nice lady, or as we say here in Sheffield, a nice lass, but I always say it is the last person who puts anything in my pram. They are the most important people to me. The smiles on the kids’ faces and the high fives with my big hand, or holding the Olympic torch. Priceless.

I’m not too good at writing letters, but one thing I will say is thank you so much to each and every one who help me to help Macmillan. Macmillan will always be there for you. Just ring 0808 8080000 for help when you need it most.

Another great honour in 2019 was being given the Freedom of the City. To be among the greats of our city moved me to tears. Thank you all so much for all the good wishes I have had. “Watch out for the sheep”.

Many years ago I wrote a poem about our city and was lucky enough to have it published. I hope that it sums up just what I think of Sheffield.

My City

Sheffield my city will always be home to me

No matter where I go or whatever sights I may see

Whenever I return, church bells will peal

As I come home to the city of steel.

A cathedral, cinemas, Sheffield has such beautiful places

Home to a host of people of so many races

Living and working in perfect harmony

That’s why Sheffield is the greatest place to be.

Singing the praises of Sheffield my city as I go forth

For now, we are the sporting city of the north

Wonderful people, so helpful, so happy, so very kind

Sheffield my city, no better place you will find.

My city of Sheffield is simply the very best

England’s finest city, better than all the rest

No matter in the world where I choose to roam

I’ll always return to my city, my Sheffield, my home.

Once again I wish every one of you a very Happy New Year. Thank you all for your support for myself and Macmillan. I am so proud to be a dee dah.

Thank you all so very much.