Sara Cox completed a grueling 135-mile “Great Northern Marathon Challenge” over five days for BBC Children in Need — and thanks to her effort, she and her team raised an astonishing £7,651,855 for charity..

On Day 4 of her ambitious challenge for BBC Children in Need, renowned radio presenter Sara Cox stunned supporters by raising US $1.23 million, as the donations continued pouring in for her 135-mile ultra-marathon across four counties.

By the end of Day 3 of the BBC Children in Need 2025 challenge, Vernon Kay had raised over £3.1 million, inspiring the nation with his endurance run across the UK. Joining the movement, Sara Cox also played a huge part, rallying supporters through her on-air campaign and fundraising efforts. Together with Paddy McGuinness, the trio have turned this year’s appeal into one of the most heart-warming charity moments of 2025.

Every year, BBC Children in Need 2025 brings the UK together for one of the most heart-warming fundraising events on television — and 2025 has already delivered remarkable generosity. Radio 2 presenter Sara Cox has raised more than £439,000 in a single day through her five-day, 135-mile “Great Northern Marathon” trek. Meanwhile long-time campaign supporters Vernon Kay and Paddy McGuinness have collectively raised over £16 million for Children in Need through their previous challenges. Together, their efforts underscore the power of community and commitment to making real change for children across the UK.

 

Paddy McGuinness & Vernon Kay: Total Money Raised for Children in Need Revealed

 

As November rolls in, one of Britain’s most beloved charity traditions is back — BBC Children in Need 2025. And once again, familiar faces like Vernon Kay, Sara Cox, and Paddy McGuinness are leading from the front, raising millions and inspiring the nation with their incredible challenges.

From cross-country marathons to grueling rides and nationwide support, this year’s campaign has already touched hearts and shown what can happen when the UK comes together for a cause that truly matters.

🌧 Sara Cox’s Emotional Challenge Across the North

BBC Radio 2 host Sara Cox has been on an inspiring five-day journey — walking, running, and cycling over 135 miles from the Scottish border to Pudsey, West Yorkshire. Battling rain and fatigue, Sara described the trek as “the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but also the most rewarding.”

Her “Great Northern Marathon Challenge” quickly gained nationwide attention, raising over £439,000 in just one day. Along her route, well-wishers greeted her with cheers, bagpipes, and heartfelt messages — reminding everyone why Children in Need means so much to communities across the UK.

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🏃 Vernon Kay’s Ultra-Marathon Legacy Lives On

Last year, Vernon Kay’s 115-mile ultramarathon captured national attention — and raised a jaw-dropping £6 million for Children in Need. His determination, blisters and all, inspired countless donations and became one of the campaign’s standout moments.

This year, while Vernon isn’t taking on another ultra-challenge just yet, his legacy is still driving enthusiasm for 2025’s fundraising efforts. His story set the bar high for everyone taking part — showing that a single person’s effort can spark an entire country’s generosity.

🚴 Paddy McGuinness Pushes the Limits

Comedian and TV presenter Paddy McGuinness also played a massive role in last year’s fundraising success, completing a near 300-mile bike ride that raised an astonishing £7.5 million. His combination of humor, grit, and emotional honesty won over viewers and donors alike.

With this year’s appeal gearing up, fans are already waiting to see what Paddy will do next — because if there’s one thing he’s proven, it’s that he’ll always go the extra mile (literally) for charity.

💛 What It’s All For

Since its first broadcast in 1980, BBC Children in Need has raised over £1 billion, helping thousands of children and young people across the UK. The money supports projects tackling poverty, disability, mental health struggles, and abuse, ensuring that every pound goes toward making real change in local communities.

Last year alone, the charity’s telethon night pulled in over £52 million, a testament to how much this annual event still means to people.

📺 What to Expect on the Big Night

The BBC One telethon will air live on Friday, November 14, featuring a star-studded lineup:

  • Mel Giedroyc, Rochelle Humes, Vernon Kay, Paddy McGuinness, Lenny Rush, and Big Zuu will host.

  • Special celebrity performances, surprise moments, and live total updates will keep viewers glued to their screens.

  • Iconic elements like the Children in Need headband and Pudsey Bear will once again symbolize the heart of the campaign.

This night isn’t just about fundraising — it’s a celebration of hope, kindness, and the unshakable power of community.

🌟 The Spirit of Giving

Whether it’s Sara Cox trudging through mud, Vernon Kay running against exhaustion, or children across the country selling cakes and crafts — every effort counts. The heart of Children in Need has always been about ordinary people doing extraordinary things for others.

As the big night approaches, one thing is clear: the UK’s generosity shows no sign of slowing down. And this year’s campaign, powered by love, laughter, and a whole lot of determination, might just be one of the most memorable yet.