"We're so proud of him": Sheffielders pay tribute as John Burkhill's city centre star unveiled
his name will forever be etched in Sheffield’s Legends’ walk of fame
The people of Sheffield have spoken of their pride and gratitude to mega-fundraiser John Burkhill after a city centre star was unveiled to the ‘Man with the Pram’.
The 87-year-old marathon runner, who has raised a whopping £1.2m for MacMillan Cancer Support has won the heart of the not only the region, but the nation too.
And now, his name will forever be etched in Sheffield’s Legends’ walk of fame outside town hall after a special ceremony unveiling the memorial on Tuesday (September 29).
Steve Gee, friend for decades was there to see the ceremony.
He said: “I think it’s so inspiring what he’s done. He lost his wife and his daughter to cancer and since his retirement he’s put himself out there to raise £1m for charity.
“He’s been given the key to the city and a BEM, a Pride of Britain Award - and now a walk of fame star!
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“Personally, I think he needs knighting.”
Sister Wendy McLaren and Rita Fox, who have known John for decades, told how their father, Arthur Williams was the one to suggest The Mad Walker push the pram on his fundraising journey.
“They ran the Express Dairy social club together and that’s where ‘this thing’ started,” said Wendy.
“We’ve known him forty, forty-five years - he means so much and we’re so proud of him.”
Another woman in a green wig was Hazel Burkhill, whose husband was John’s cousin. “We’ve known each other since we’ve been little.
“He done fantastically. He deserves more awards and it’s time they gave him the plaque.
“I think young ones out there could take example from him and do what he does - he thinks of everybody, he smiles wherever he goes and puts others first.”
And on social media, other were quick to say a big ‘well done’ to John for his achievements, while suggesting a knighthood should be the next honour to bestow him.
Dennis White said: “It should be Sir John” while Kelly Thacker added: “Congratulations now for the title the bloke deserves SIR John!”