The Radio 2 DJ Sara Cox is undertaking a demanding 135-mile effort to support Children In Need this year. Starting from Kielder Forest near the Scottish borders, she will cover the distance on foot over five days, aiming to reach Pudsey in Leeds by Friday, November 14.
Sara's journey begins on Monday, November 10. The "Great Northern Marathon Challenge" includes running, jogging, and walking through four counties: Northumberland, Durham, North Yorkshire, and West Yorkshire. She will carry the Pudsey bear throughout the route, symbolically bringing "Pudsey" to the town of Pudsey in Leeds.
Following last year's example set by her Radio 2 co-star Paddy McGuinness, who raised £10 million after a tough cycling challenge, Sara is tackling this event entirely on foot. Her goal is to complete the route in time for the Friday night Children In Need broadcast on BBC One.
“We’re talking 135 miles of hills, moors and blisters – but I am ready for the challenge, and I will absolutely be giving it everything I’ve got!” Sara said.
She also expressed mixed emotions: “When they picked me to get Pudsey to Pudsey, I was honoured and horrified in equal measure.”
This event highlights Sara's determination to raise awareness and funds for Children In Need by completing a physically demanding route across northern England on foot.
Author's summary: Sara Cox embarks on a challenging 135-mile foot marathon across four counties, carrying Pudsey bear to raise funds and awareness for Children In Need.