Community Champion Gary McKee Honoured with MBE
Gary McKee, a well-respected figure from Cleator Moor in West Cumbria, has been awarded an MBE in the King’s 2026 New Year Honours List. This honour recognises his remarkable contributions to charitable fundraising and community service over two decades.
A Legacy of Charity
Known locally as ‘Marathon Man’, McKee has dedicated more than 20 years to supporting various charities within the West Cumbria region. His efforts are exemplified by his extraordinary accomplishment of running 365 marathons in just 365 days, during which he raised over £2 million for local causes. His unwavering commitment and community spirit have established him as a notable and admired figure in both Sellafield Ltd and the broader region.
Personal Reflections on the Honour
Upon receiving the MBE, McKee described the accolade as “humbling.” He expressed gratitude for the overwhelming public support and acknowledged the invaluable contributions of his family, supporters, and all those who have aided his fundraising endeavours throughout the years. For him, being recognised “for services to charity and to the community in Cleator Moor” holds special significance, as he attributes much of his success to the robust community backing he has enjoyed.
Recognition from Sellafield Ltd
Roddy Miller, Chief Operating Officer of Sellafield Ltd, expressed pride in McKee’s accomplishments and the honour bestowed upon him. He noted that the entire organisation appreciates the impact McKee has made, describing his determination and resilience as motivational qualities that foster community spirit amongst those around him. Miller highlighted the pride felt within the company for having someone of McKee’s calibre as a colleague.
A New Challenge on the Horizon
Looking ahead, McKee is set to take on another significant fundraising challenge in 2026, with plans to run 100 marathons over 100 days. This ambitious feat, branded as 100toLDN, will culminate with a run at the London Marathon alongside his son, Beau. The challenge is scheduled to begin on Saturday, 17 January 2026, and aims to raise funds for Hospice at Home West Cumbria. Additional information regarding the challenge can be found at 100toLDN.com.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/sellafield-ltd-employee-awarded-mbe-in-new-year-honours-list
