Speedo Mick on a fundraising walk

From swimming briefs to Citizen of Honour!

A man who has raised more than a million pounds for charity – sporting miniscule swimming briefs – will become a recipient of Liverpool’s Citizen of Honour accolade next week.

On Thursday (9 May), Michael Cullen – more popularly known as Speedo Mick – will be presented with the honour at Liverpool Town Hall by Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Councillor Mary Rasmussen.

Mick has walked the length and breadth of the UK wearing little more than swimming trunks, including a trek from John O’Groats to Land’s End, and has also swum the English Channel and climbed four mountains.

He has been nominated for these mammoth fundraising efforts, and his determination to complete challenges despite having to battle through storms such as Storm Ciara in February 2020 and then one week later, Storm Dennis.

He has raised money for more than 120 organisations, including charities which support disadvantaged young people and homeless as well as mental health and wellbeing projects.

When asked about the award, Mick said:

“I am overwhelmed and extremely grateful indeed to be awarded the Liverpool Citizen of honour Award. I cannot receive a more meaningful award as it is from my hometown of Liverpool, and it is this that means the world to me.” 

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.

Liverpool Waterfront