Sara Cox, presenter of Radio 2’s Teatime Show (Monday to Friday, 4–7pm) and Radio 2 Book Club, will take on a truly epic test of stamina and spirit this November as she sets out on Radio 2’s longest-ever challenge, a five-day mission to get Pudsey… to Pudsey!
As announced on Scott Mills Breakfast Show (6.30-9.30am) this morning, Sara will take on the distance of five marathons across five days, starting from the wild beauty of the Kielder Forest on the Scottish borders and finishing in Pudsey in Leeds – a symbolic journey carrying BBC Children in Need’s iconic mascot from border to heartland.
Covering 135 miles on foot across four counties – Northumberland, Durham, North Yorkshire and West Yorkshire – Sara’s Great Northern Marathon Challenge will see her run, jog, and walk through sweeping moorland, steep ridges, and the rolling hills of northern England, all while carrying a very special Pudsey Bear backpack.
Sara’s challenge will kick off on Monday 10 November in the Kielder Forest and reach its finale in Pudsey, Leeds, on the afternoon of Friday 14 November, with support from towns, villages, and Radio 2 listeners along the way.
This marks Radio 2’s longest-ever challenge in terms of duration, and Sara will be relying entirely on her own two feet – whether walking or jogging – no bikes, no cars, just determination, and a generous helping of great northern grit.
Sara Cox says: “When they picked me to get Pudsey to Pudsey, I was honoured and horrified in equal measure – 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! Just like with Vernon & Paddy, I know the brilliant Radio 2 listeners will be with me every step of the way and their encouragement and support will shove me up every incline & pull me through my toughest moments. Pudsey has been part of Children in Need for 40 years this year, and I can’t think of a better way to celebrate than by helping raise much-needed funds for children who need it most.”
