Celebrations as Speedo Mick completes walk from John O'Groats to Land's End
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SPEEDO Mick has completed his epic 1000-mile walk from John O'Groats to Land's End, attracting a wealth of media attention along the way.
Michael Cullen (55), an Everton football fan who was easily recognisable in his blue Speedo trunks and not a lot else, raised more than £315,000 for community projects for disadvantage young people.
He set off from John O'Groats in December and finished his trek at the weekend.
Along the way Speedo Mick caught the attention of many passing motorists and was always hitting the headlines.
When he arrived at Land's End on Saturday, he was greeted by a large crowd and a brass band.
Everton supporters know all about the antics of Speedo Mick, who turns up at matches in his trunks and raises thousands of pounds for charity.
While setting off from the signpost in John O'Groats said he he wanted those present to join him in a chant from Everton's Goodison Park – "He's the one with no clothes."
Explaining a little about his motives, Mick said he had spent a period of his life as a homeless addict.
“The charity I’m raising money towards is called Leave the Light On and is basically aimed at the disadvantaged within our communities,” he said.
“I’ve suffered with mental health issues myself and was addicted to drugs and alcohol while on the streets.”
Mick said that he had not touched drink or drugs for 18 years.
“I’ve actually turned my life around completely now. There is always hope in the darkest of places,” he said.
It was impossible to miss the fact that Mick supported Everton as the name of the team featured on either side of his trunks.
Mick was nominated for an Unsung Hero prize for the BBC Sports Personality of the Year in 2017 and defied the strict dress code to turn up in his Speedos.
On his journey through the Highlands the scantily clad walker was turned away from a Ross-shire café in case he caused upset. However, he was shown true Highland hospitality when the people sitting inside came out to offer him food and warmth.
