Radio 2’s Sara Cox is set to undertake a major challenge across Northern England to support BBC Children in Need. Known for her relentless work ethic and upbeat personality, the 50-year-old presenter will put these traits to the test by covering the equivalent of five marathons over five days.
From Monday to Friday, she will travel 135 miles on foot, starting at Kielder Forest near the Scottish borders and finishing in Leeds. The journey will raise funds for the BBC’s annual Children in Need campaign, with Cox accompanied by the campaign mascot, Pudsey.
Pudsey will be carried to Leeds, the West Yorkshire town where graphic designer Joanna Lane created the mascot. This endeavor marks Radio 2’s longest ever challenge.
“I'm not Mo Farah, I'm not going to be running these each day. I'm going to be doing a mixture of running, walking, a light trot and then just stumbling along doing ugly crying on the telly whilst possibly swearing quite a lot.”
Despite a current knee problem, Cox remains determined. She said:
“I'm just gonna have to crack on and do it. Nothing gets you to the gym like the thought of letting down lots of children, not raising money for charities, you know what I mean? National humiliation and letting everybody down. That really does make you pep up and pop your trainers on and go to the gym.”
Cox’s commitment reflects her dedication to the cause and her readiness to push through physical discomfort for the benefit of children in need.
Author’s summary: Sara Cox is preparing to walk and run 135 miles over five days, carrying Pudsey to Leeds, showcasing her determination to support Children in Need despite physical challenges.