The One Show has announced the return of the Rickshaw Challenge, with a new team of riders and route across England revealed today. Back for a fifth year, this year’s team will cover a 470 mile journey from Land’s End to the East End to help fundraise for BBC Children in Need.
The rickshaw will be pedalled by six young riders, all of who have been supported by BBC Children in Need funded projects. The One Show presenters will also be on hand throughout the journey to offer support and advice from their own rickshaw experiences. Matt Baker will cycle alongside the team throughout the challenge, while Alex Jones will split time reporting from The One Show studios and on the road with the team.
The Challenge has already raised over £7.9 million to date and with one of the hardest routes on record, including a 74 mile stint from Bristol to Winchester – one of the longest days in the Challenge’s history – the team are hoping this year’s efforts will help secure another strong total.
Setting off on Friday 6 November from Land’s End in Cornwall, the team will work their way across England in a bid to cross the finish line in Elstree on Friday 13th November, in time for the BBC Children in Need Appeal Show.
Speaking of this year’s challenge Matt Baker said: “It’s that time of year again, and this year’s Team Rickshaw will be warming up for their biggest challenge yet. It’s going to be tough but with your help we’re hoping to raise more much needed money for BBC Children in Need. We have a truly inspiring group taking on the challenge, and they all have brilliant stories to tell, so please do get behind them and do all you can to show your support, it really will help make a difference.”
Alex Jones added: “I am delighted that the Rickshaw Challenge is returning again this year, every year we are astounded at the support people across the UK give to the challenge, and we hope this year will be no different. I know first-hand just how difficult it can be, so I am asking you all to dig deep and show your support for this year’s team.”
Since 2011, the Rickshaw Challenge has raised over £7.9 million for BBC Children in Need, with each and every penny going to projects supporting disadvantaged children and young people right here in the UK. One Show viewers will be able to follow Team Rickshaw’s progress each day, and updates will also be available online at bbc.co.uk/pudsey.
To support the challenge, you can donate either £5 or £10 by text. To donate £5 text the word TEAM to 70705 or to donate £10 text GIVE to 70710. Texts will cost your donation plus the standard network message change. All of your donation will go to BBC Children in Need. You must be 16 or over and please ask for the bill payer’s permission. For more information and full terms and conditions go to bbc.co.uk/pudsey.
