Sheffielder John Burkhill has dedicated his life – and many Christmases – to raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support
12:32, 25 Dec 2025Updated 12:37, 25 Dec 2025
Sheffield ‘legend’ John Burkhill(Image: Andrew Dowdeswell)
Christmas is a time for family, and no one knows this better than John Burkhill, who has raised more than £1m for Macmillan after the loss of his wife and daughter.
Through decades of marathons, walks and fundraising efforts, Wig-wearing John Burkhill is undoubtedly Sheffield‘s most famous fundraiser but is known to many as ‘The Man with the Pram’.
He began fundraising for Macmillan after his wife, June, died of cancer in 1993. Tragically, her death occurred exactly one year to the day after their daughter, Karen, died due to complications from a routine medical procedure.
For the last several years, John has spent his Christmas day not tucked up indoors, but rather taking to the streets to raise even more money for Macmillan.
John, who turns 87 in January, has not been phased by the cold of Christmas day – sharing his excitement for the 16-mile stroll around Sheffield.
John said “he couldn’t wait” for his Christmas day walk, which will see him set off at 8am from the NGS Macmillan Unit at Chesterfield Royal Hospital and finish at the Macmillan Palliative Care Unit at the Northern General.
Though John explained that he could “never be sure” when he would finish – due to the many people who stop him in the street – John said, “I love getting out and wishing you all a Merry Christmas on this special day.”
Donations can be made to John’s fundraiser here:
If you are living with cancer, or supporting someone who is this festive season, Macmillan is here for you. Call its Support Line for free on 0808 808 0000 from 8am to 8pm 7 days a week including Christmas Day or visit www.macmillan.org.uk.
John ‘The Man with the Pram’ Burkhill’s Christmas Day Route (Image: John Burkhill / Facebook)
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