BBC Star Begins 135-Mile Charity Trek Across the North East
BBC Radio 2 presenter Sara Cox has set off on a 135-mile journey across the North East to support the annual Children in Need campaign. The challenge, known as the Great Northern Marathon Challenge, will see her completing five marathons over five consecutive days.
Throughout the trek, Cox will travel on foot across four counties — County Durham, North Yorkshire, Northumberland, and West Yorkshire — carrying a Pudsey Bear backpack as a tribute to the charity. Her route begins in Kielder Forest on November 10 and finishes in Pudsey, Leeds, on November 14.
Sara Cox’s Motivation
“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.”
Cox added that Pudsey Bear has been a symbol of Children in Need for 40 years, and she sees her journey as a fitting way to mark the milestone while raising vital funds for children across the UK.
About the Challenge
- Total distance: 135 miles
- Duration: November 10–14
- Counties covered: Durham, North Yorkshire, Northumberland, West Yorkshire
- Purpose: Raise money for BBC Children in Need
Author’s summary: Sara Cox embarks on a 135-mile trek across four northern counties to raise funds for Children in Need, marking 40 years of Pudsey’s legacy.