The Rickshaw Challenge for BBC Children in Need is back this year with a difference and the route is heading to Southport next month.
The Great Rickshaw Relay Challenge will see The One Show host Matt Baker and a team take on a relay-style ride in five chapters, with each rider taking a leg each, travelling through their hometowns, and visiting places that are significant to them.
Baker will be there to pass the Rickshaw baton between five inspirational young people who are taking part in the challenge from November 1 – 5.
The challenge will be filmed for a one-off Children In Need special as part of the 2021 appeal.
The Rickshaw Challenge has raised more than £41 million for the charity in 11 years.
Speaking of this year’s Great Rickshaw Relay Challenge, Matt Baker says: “The first-ever Great Rickshaw Relay Challenge special programme will provide a behind the scenes look at how we get the Rickshaw on the road and the trials and tribulations over an incredible week with some inspirational young people.
“It’s been a big part of my life over the last 10 years and I’m over the moon we’ve managed to find a way of it happening again and show viewers how their donations help change young lives.”
Who is taking part?
The five youngsters taking part in the relay have all been supported by BBC Children in Need funded projects.
Liv, 17 from Southport, is a young carer who supports her sister Jess, who has life-limiting Beckwith-Wiedemann Syndrome.
Liv will be taking the Rickshaw baton to Southport on November 3.
She receives help from Claire House Hospice which delivers a sibling support group for children and young people to help them cope with the emotional difficulties that come with being a carer.
“I am beyond grateful for the incredible support I’ve received from Claire House Hospice over the last five years, they have helped me manage my emotions whilst going through such a difficult time," said Liv.
"As a family, we are unable to go on holiday so Claire House Hospice has provided us with fun days out such as trips to the beach, a farm and also the opportunity to meet other children and families who are in the same position.
"I am really excited to be part of this year’s Rickshaw Challenge, I can’t wait to get involved and help fundraise for BBC Children in Need.”
What is the route?
The route will go all over the country, starting in Somerset on November 1 and ending in Edinburgh on November 5.
Here are the details of the full route:
- November 1 – Somerset, Bristol
- November 2 – Media City, Manchester
- November 3 – Southport
- November 4 – Ulverston, Cumbria
- November 5 – Edinburgh, Scotland
The BBC is also encouraging people to take part in the Pedal for Pudsey fundraiser, whether it be cycling around town or taking part virtually.
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