Vernon Kay begins 115-mile ultramarathon to raise money for Children in Need

BBC Radio 2 presenter Vernon Kay is taking part in a 115-mile ultramarathon to raise cash for children’s charities. 

The 49-year-old will be put to the test while he takes part in the exhausting challenge to raise money for Children in Need.

The Bolton-born presenter is currently attempting the run from Victoria Park, in Leicester, all the way to his hometown, where he will cross the finish line at Bolton Wanderers’ stadium.

Kay completed the first leg of the journey on Tuesday, November 14th and aims to complete it by Friday night (November 17th).

His ultramarathon is being broadcast live on BBC Radio 2 and BBC Sounds, with viewers able to leave messages of support through their regular BBC radio shows hosted by other presenters to help keep him motivated.

Kay’s challenge is a continuation of Radio 2’s fundraisers for BBC Children in Need, which includes The Great Scott TreadMills Challenge from the previous year, in which presenter Scott Mills raised close to £1.3 million by walking, jogging, and running on a treadmill for 24 hours.

About taking on the challenge, Vernon said: “I was just settling into my new mid-morning routine and now this!

“Everyone who has previously undertaken a BBC Children in Need challenge has raised so much money for this brilliant charity, so the pressure is on, but I’m up for it… so come on, let’s do this!”

Helen Thomas, Head of BBC Radio 2, said: “Who better than to take on this year’s Radio 2 challenge for BBC Children in Need than the newest member of our family and Bolton’s very own, Mr Vernon Kay. Run, Vernon run, we’re all super proud of you!”

Simon Antrobus, BBC Children in Need Chief Executive, said: “In recent years, the wellbeing of children and young people across the UK has been hugely challenged, sadly making the lives of children and young people facing disadvantage that much harder.

“So we are thrilled that Vernon is taking on such an enormous challenge to help make a difference when it is needed most. We will be cheering him on every step of the way!”

All the proceeds raised from the challenge will go towards supporting children and young people across the UK who are facing a range of issues.

If you would like to watch or keep up-to-date with Vernon Kay’s Children in Need challenge, you can do so by clicking HERE.