Pride Of Britain viewers were left in tears as Sheffield’s John Burkhill read a poem about his hometown after he was given the ITV Fundraiser of the Year award for raising over £1m for Macmillan Cancer Support.
The pensioner, who is also known as the “Man with the Pram” has been recognised for his fundraising achievements at the star-studded ceremony.
For 15 years he has spent time walking the streets of Sheffield to raise money for a charity close to his heart following the death of his wife June to cancer.
Strictly Come Dancing stars surprised John with the award on stage and legendary broadcaster Angela Rippon described his achievements as “extraordinary” as well as shared a dance with him.
(Image: ITV)
As he was flanked by the likes of Nadiya Bychkova and Kai Widdrington, Angela Rippon – who is in the current series of Strictly – asked John how the 84-year-old stays so young.
In full Sheffield mode John replied: “Toast wi dripping every morning.”
For those born outside the steel city, dripping is melted fat, usually left over from frying meat.
John went on to show his love for his home city with a sweet poem, he said: “This is what I think about Sheffield. Sheffield is my city that will also be home to me, no matter where I grow up or whatever sites I see.
(Image: ITV)
“Whenever I return, church bells will ring as I come home to the city of steal, cathedral and cinemas. Sheffield has some beautiful places home to so many people and so many races.
“Living together and working together in perfect harmony and that’s why Sheffield is the greatest place to be. I will always return to my city, my Sheffield, my home.
Viewers watching at home were left in tears at the poem as some insisted that they “couldn’t be prouder to say I’m from Sheffield”.
@sammykinsss Tweeted: “Honestly John Burkhill’s poem to Sheffield made me well up and realise how proud I am to be from South Yorkshire, just listening to his voice takes me back to the comfort and kindness of home #PrideOfBritain.”
@suzyglitter1 wrote: “Who knew it would be a poem about living in peace and harmony in Sheffield by John that would get the audience on their feet! #PrideOfBritain.”
@mattygoodwin commented: “So much crap in the world. But then there’s @JohnBurkhillBEM We love ya, John #PrideofBritain.”
@jcollinscareers said: “Well that’s me gone again, that poem from @JohnBurkhillBEM (‘the man with the pram’) about Sheffield pushed me over the edge! #prideofbritain.”
@midnight_babyy wrote: “Was doing good till John won his award for macmillan can’t stop crying what a absolute hero #prideofbritain.”
While @DaveStapleton1 added: “Never have I been prouder to say I’m from Sheffield than just now!John Birkhill aka Man with a Pram – you are a superstar. #PrideOfBritain.”
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