BBC Star Sara Cox Embarks On Epic 135-Mile Trek For Children in Need

On The Table Read Magazine, “the best arts and entertainment magazine UK“, BBC Radio 2’s Sara Cox kicks off her epic 135-mile ‘Great Northern Marathon Challenge’ today from Kielder Forest, trekking through Durham, Yorkshire & Northumberland with a Pudsey backpack to raise vital funds for Children In Need.

Children In Need Challenge

BBC Radio 2 presenter Sara Cox has kicked off an ambitious fundraising challenge today, lacing up her walking boots for a gruelling 135-mile journey across the North of England in aid of Children in Need.

Dubbed the ‘Great Northern Marathon Challenge’, the endeavour sees Cox traversing four counties on foot – running, jogging, and walking through the dramatic landscapes of County Durham, North Yorkshire, Northumberland, and West Yorkshire. Adding a touch of whimsy to the ordeal, she’ll be carrying a Pudsey Bear backpack throughout, in homage to the charity’s iconic mascot.

The trek began this morning (Monday, November 10) in the serene surroundings of Kielder Forest, Europe’s largest man-made woodland on the England-Scotland border. From there, Cox will navigate sweeping moorlands, rolling hills, and rugged terrain, pushing her physical limits over five demanding days.

Her endpoint? Fittingly, the town of Pudsey in Leeds, West Yorkshire, where she is due to arrive on Friday, November 14. The finish line nods to Pudsey Bear himself, the yellow-spotted bear who has been the face of BBC Children in Need since 1985.

A Test of Endurance for a Worthy Cause

Cox, known for her energetic morning show on BBC Radio 2 and her love of the outdoors, described the challenge as a “proper adventure” blending personal grit with charitable impact. “It’s going to be tough – the hills don’t mess about up here – but every step is for the kids who need it most,” she said ahead of the start.

The route highlights some of the North’s most breathtaking scenery:

• County Durham: Starting with forested paths and open moors.
• Northumberland: Crossing national park vistas and historic trails.
• North Yorkshire: Tackling the Yorkshire Dales’ undulating terrain.
• West Yorkshire: Culminating in urban arrival amid Leeds’ suburbs.

Children in Need, the BBC’s flagship charity appeal, supports disadvantaged children and young people across the UK. Last year’s campaign raised over £33 million, funding projects tackling poverty, disability, and illness.

How to Support Sara’s Challenge

Fans and supporters can follow Cox’s progress via BBC updates, social media, and live check-ins on Radio 2. Donations are open through the official Children in Need website or by texting during broadcast segments.

As Cox sets off into the misty Kielder trails with Pudsey strapped to her back, her journey serves as a reminder of the power of individual effort in driving collective good. Stay tuned for updates as she powers towards Pudsey – one determined step at a time.

Find Children In Need now:

https://www.bbcchildreninneed.co.uk