Many people across Herefordshire will be aware of Mike Pullin, and his unwavering dedication to St Michael’s Hospice.
Now, thanks to a feature on one of the country’s most watched TV shows, he is familiar to millions. The unwavering dedication of 87-year-old Mike was recognised by The One Show which surprised him as part of the BBC show’s One Big Thank You series, aired on Thursday evening.
The accolade was recognition for decades of support for St Michael’s through the Hospice Angels fundraising group, which was founded by Mike and has now helped bring an astonishing £700,000 into the Bartestree-based Hospice.
“I never thought the Angels would reach this milestone,” said Mike, who received a BEM (British Empire Medal) in 2012 in recognition of his charity work. “I’m just so proud to have been a part of it, but also so grateful to everyone who has supported the Angels over the years.”
Mike graciously says he wouldn’t have achieved the success without his fellow Angels. In truth though, Mike’s tenacity and dogged determination has been a big factor in helping the coffers continue to pour in. Not afraid to try new ideas, his fundraising has been nothing if not varied. Just a couple of years ago, while well into his 80s, he completed his tenth skydive. In 2002, he joined his great friend Mick Marshall – who later died at St Michael’s – in accompanying Mick’s horse, Frank, to London.
Mike’s dedication and loyalty resulted in him being recognised – and surprised – by The One Show having been nominated by a close friend.
The bright lights of the studio were a far cry from Mike’s 60th birthday party in 1996 when he first invited donations to the Hospice. That night raised £1,650, and signalled the start of his fundraising. Seven years later, the Angels was formed by Mike and a group of Hospice-supporting biking enthusiasts.
They would regularly take overseas trips, visiting six of Herefordshire’s twin towns over the years, and 19 countries in total, raising money and awareness of St Michael’s along the way.
“It’s a charity I care deeply about,” added Mike. “The work carried out by those at St Michael’s is exemplary, and I have known many people who have received this care, and they have all been so grateful.
“Of course, I never thought we would reach £700,000. It’s just thanks to the generosity of our community that this milestone has been reached. People are kind, and only too happy to support St Michael’s Hospice, which just tells you how loved and respected the charity is. It’s been a memorable journey, and one I don’t wish to give up. I’ve met so many wonderful, caring people. I’ve laughed, cried and made so many memories. I really have loved every minute of it.”