Staffordshire army officer awarded MBE for charity work
An army officer who has raised more than £250,000 for charity in his 25-year career has spoken of his pride after being awarded an MBE.
Captain Bill Sykes was given the honour in recognition of his efforts over more than two decades and he said he was 'gobsmacked' when a nomination from the Stafford-based 22 Signal Regiment was successful.
The 41-year-old father-of three said: "I have never set out to get any recognition for myself and it was humbling and a real honour to read the citation and find out what others think about what I do."
His fundraising endeavours include running the London Marathon while carrying a 40lb rucksack three times, the Three Peaks Challenge and more than 50 half marathons.
His programme for 2016 includes the London Marathon, various half marathons and the four-day Pedal to Paris bike ride.
He will be raising money for the Royal British Legion and children's charity Newlife Foundation for Disabled Children based in Cannock.
Capt Sykes, who is currently based at Wattisham, Suffolk, said: "It all started with a sailing expedition in1993 when I was part of a team that raised £8,000 for the Royal British Legion.
"After taking part in a few more events I got the bug and started organising activities myself.
"Charities are about making people's lives better and I want to do what I can to support that.
"I have seen first hand what military charities do to help injured serviceman and veterans and I am a father and would like to think that if one of my children was seriously ill a charity would be there to help."
