Speedo Mick 'over the moon' to get citizen award

Michael Cullen undertook a series of charity walks wearing swimming trunks

A man who has raised over £1m for charity by walking in his swimming trunks, has said he is "over the moon" to be awarded Liverpool's Citizen of Honour.

Speedo Mick, whose full name is Michael Cullen, is best known for walking the length and breadth of the UK for charity in his unique attire.

He has also swum the English Channel and climbed four mountains as part of his fundraising activity.

"I'm absolutely thrilled," Mr Cullen said, adding that the Citizen of Honour certificate would take pride of place in his front room.

He added: "I'm over the moon about it because it's from the city of Liverpool it makes it all the more special to me.

"I can't thank everybody enough for all the support.

"It means the world to me.”

The Citizen of Honour recognises people who have made an exceptional contribution to enriching the image of the city.

It was introduced in 2008 and has recently been presented to poet and performer Levi Tafari and Professor Doctor Shiv Pande MBE for his services to medicine.

Mr Cullen has raised money for over 120 organisations including charities which support disadvantaged young people and homeless people as well as mental health and wellbeing projects.

He said it was a way to thank the people who helped him with his own mental health challenges.

He was presented with the award at Liverpool Town Hall by Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Councillor Mary Rasmussen, who described him as a "wonderful character".

"The money he has raised for charity is phenomenal and we as scousers are definitely proud of that".