“Sheffield people are the friendliest in England” says our Pram Man as he marks landmark year

2019 has been another landmark year for John ‘The man with the pram’ Burkhill in many ways. Here he remembers just a few of the highlights and sends out a special heart-warming thanks to the people of Sheffield and Yorkshire, who have helped boost his fundraising total to over £750,000.
By John Burkhill
Published 17th Dec 2019, 15:23 BST
Updated 18th Dec 2019, 15:11 BST
Sheffield 10K Race Start and Finish on Arundel Gate. John Burkhill on his way around the course.....Pic Steve EllisSheffield 10K Race Start and Finish on Arundel Gate. John Burkhill on his way around the course.....Pic Steve Ellis
Sheffield 10K Race Start and Finish on Arundel Gate. John Burkhill on his way around the course.....Pic Steve Ellis

“This year started off brilliantly. I was making my way to the Town Hall for a meeting and walked around the corner and there were hundreds of people there. BBC Radio Sheffield, The Star, Macmillan and the Council had thrown a surprise 80th birthday for me!

“Although I was sad that my wife June and daughter Karen couldn’t be there, my sons Stuart and Scott, and grandson Daniel attended along with lots old friends. It was one of the best days of my life! In April I took part in the Sheffield Half Marathon again. I’ve done them all. I love both Sheffield races. Everyone is always so friendly and generous, and I always collect lots of donations for Macmillan.

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“I often get asked who is the most important person I’ve met. The Queen, she’s a great lass. But the most important by far is anyone who puts money in my bucket. That money, even if it’s only 1p, it makes all the difference to us. I hear the most amazing stories. That’s why it takes me so long to get around the races. A big highlight for me is always match days. Both football clubs are summat else. Both teams and both sets of fans are out of this world.

John Burkhill , Sheffield's famous fundraiser 'Man With A Pram' ,at a surprise celebration. at the town hall to mark his 80th birthday. Picture Scott MerryleesJohn Burkhill , Sheffield's famous fundraiser 'Man With A Pram' ,at a surprise celebration. at the town hall to mark his 80th birthday. Picture Scott Merrylees
John Burkhill , Sheffield's famous fundraiser 'Man With A Pram' ,at a surprise celebration. at the town hall to mark his 80th birthday. Picture Scott Merrylees

“This autumn I won ITV’s Pride of Yorkshire and was put forward for the national Pride of Britain awards at the Grosvenor Hotel in London. I didn’t win, but it was a privilege to be recognised in that way. In November I was honoured to receive the Freedom of the City of Sheffield.

“So, I’d like to say a huge THANK YOU to the people of Sheffield and everyone who has supported me. They’re the most friendliest people in England.

I always say they haven’t just got blood, they’ve got true Yorkshire grit. I couldn’t have raised the £750,000 without their help, and together we’ll get to one million pounds.”

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John will be taking part in a Christmas Day walk from Chesterfield Royal Hospital to the Northern General Hospital, Sheffield, setting off at 9am. To make a donation go to: www.justgiving.com/madwalker

Related topics:SheffieldEnglandYorkshireBBC Radio Sheffield