Fans of Liverpool and Everton have hailed "inspirational" Speedo Mick after he opened up on overcoming his personal demons - with one even calling for the charity fundraiser to be knighted.
Since the Everton fan, real name Mick Cullen, opened up to the ECHO about his troubled past, including suicide attempts, in a piece for the ECHO, messages of support have poured in.
The Dovecot resident, 55, is well-known for his efforts to raise £250,000 for the charity he is setting up, which he says will help disadvantaged young people.
However, less was known about his personal journey and the obstacles he has overcome - until today.
Last Friday, Mick marked 18 years of being sober, after he was introduced to drink and drugs in his teens.
Following a difficult childhood, Mick's problems followed him into his early adult years.
He found himself homeless at one point, and attempted suicide on a couple of occasions.
Now he has turned his life around and has the backing of local people, as shown by the number of messages of support left by ECHO readers on our Facebook page.
Among them was Red David Kirwan, who said: "I love this guy... I may be a Liverpool fan but he wears his toffee heart on his sleeve...go Speedo Mick!!!"
Susan Morris said: "Well done Mick... such an inspiring story, you will keep going because your heart and soul are shining through."
Lyndsey Coulter added: "I sat on the train and felt inspired by this, how open you have been and willing to give back to inspire others. You should be so proud as I’m sure the nation is. You can do this mate."
Emma Carrick called for national recognition, and said: "I have said this before but I will say it again - arise Sir Mick. You really are someone truly special, you put a capital H into Hero!"
John Duffy added: "The word legend is bounced around too easily nowadays but here’s a man with all his problems and has turned his life around and has raised an incredible amount of money for charity whilst doing an incredible feat. Speedo I take my hat off to you cos you are a legend in my eyes."
Susan Wilkinson said: "You are not alone Mick, you have most of Liverpool watching your back now."
Beverley Jane Pestell added : "Keep going Speedo Mick you are so strong, showing people that despite what you have been through there is a way out. Hopefully young people watching you are thinking 'yes I can survive'. Bless you."
Daniel Roderick simply hailed Mick "an absolute inspiration."
Julie Cooper Darbyshire summed up the thoughts of many when she said: "You are just a legend Mick."
And Billy Goulding added: "You are an amazing man, Mick. Good luck for the future!"
Mick is set to complete his latest challenge, a walk from John O'Groats to Land's End, on Saturday.
