BBC star begins 135-mile trek through County Durham in Children in Need challenge

BBC Star Starts 135-Mile Trek for Children in Need

BBC Radio 2 presenter Sara Cox has begun a demanding 135-mile journey through the North East to raise funds for Children in Need. Her challenge covers five marathons in five days across County Durham and neighboring counties.

Great Northern Marathon Challenge Details

The trek, named the 'Great Northern Marathon Challenge,' involves Sara covering the distance on foot while carrying a Pudsey Bear backpack, symbolizing the charity. She will run, jog, and walk through the moorlands and hills of Durham, North Yorkshire, Northumberland, and West Yorkshire.

The journey started on November 10 at Kielder Forest and will finish in Pudsey, Leeds on November 14.

Presenter's Motivation and Message

“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.”

“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 and 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.”

About Sara Cox

Sara Cox is the host of BBC Radio 2’s weekday teatime show and is undertaking this event to support children’s charities through Children in Need.

Author's summary: Sara Cox embarks on a rigorous 135-mile trek over five days across northern England to raise funds for Children in Need, carrying the iconic Pudsey Bear backpack.

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The Northern Echo The Northern Echo — 2025-11-10