He knew he could make a real difference, and so continued to raise money in order to support talented men, women, children, and teams from the Grimsby area. The goal was to showcase how much talent there is across our towns.

To date, Mike and the work of Inspire TCI – The Champion Inside – has supported 25 individuals and teams from Grimsby and Cleethorpes, gifted clubs with equipment to help them develop and grow, and surprised inspirational people in the area with gifts and much-needed respite, including trips away with their family. He has provided schools with free equipment and sports sessions to get children up and active, has helped over 40 people transform their lives with his ‘Biggest Loser’ fitness competition, and worked with Grimsby Food Kitchen to feed and support homeless men and women at Christmas time. With the community’s support, he has raised over £250,000 since 2013.

This year, Mike had made the Yorkshire shortlist of the Pride of Britain Awards, reaching the final four finalists in the Fundraiser of the Year category. Mike said: “I was shocked, humbled and very emotional. It’s just an honour to be recognised for just wanting to help people in my local area and make a positive difference in my community. I want to put the GREAT back in Great Grimsby by showcasing all that’s great about our towns.

“People realise that we live in a great town and there is someone that believes in them. I hope I can inspire more people to make a difference in our community.”

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