When the BBC Radio Gloucestershire team asked if I fancied being tied at the ankle and walking two miles three-legged for Children in Need, I thought — why not? It sounded like a laugh, and more importantly, it was for an incredible cause. What I didn’t realise was just how much fun (and how surprisingly difficult!) it would turn out to be.
Across the UK, BBC Radio stations and their presenters have been taking part in a nationwide challenge — collectively walking 1,000 miles while tied together at the ankle, all in support of BBC Children in Need. Each pair covered their stretch of the journey, meeting supporters and guests on their way.
For BBC Radio Gloucestershire, presenters Jon Smith and Nicky Price kicked things off in Gloucester on November 4th, kidnapped in true radio style by Gloucester Rugby’s Jamal Ford-Robinson to start their trek. Over two days, they made their way across the county, joined by various guests — and on day two, it was my turn to step up (or hobble up) for my leg of the walk-in beautiful Bourton-on-the-Water.
Setting Off in the “Venice of the Cotswolds”
I arrived just after 9:30am, dressed in my cape and Pudsey ears, ready to tackle the challenge with Jon. The sun was shining, the water sparkled, and the picturesque bridges of Bourton made the perfect backdrop. Spirits were high — though Jon was definitely feeling the miles from day one!
Originally, I was set to walk one mile alongside Jon, but after a last-minute dropout, I stepped up to walk an extra mile. No pressure! We tied ourselves together, counted to three, and off we went — a slightly wobbly start that quickly turned into a surprisingly coordinated stride.
As we passed along the river, we were greeted by locals and tourists alike — from friendly families and curious Australians to one unforgettable local celebrity: Nora the sausage dog, who was being pushed proudly along in her little doggy pushchair.
A Mission: Penguins
By the halfway mark, I was feeling strong. My legs were finding their rhythm, and I’d stopped worrying about tripping over Jon’s feet. The promise of a visit to Birdland — and the chance to see penguins — gave us an extra boost.
Yes, penguins. In the Cotswolds. Who knew?
As we neared the park, the sound of the radio played faintly through Jon’s headphones, and the excitement was real. The sight of those penguins waddling and swimming made the two miles absolutely worth it. It’s not every day you can say you’ve gone on a three-legged walk to see penguins!
A Cause Worth Every Step
Heading back towards the Cotswold Motoring Museum, where we began, I could feel my legs starting to ache. But the laughter, encouragement from passers-by, and cheers from local school children kept us going.
Later that day, Jon and Nicky completed their final stretch, clocking up a total of 26 miles for the Gloucestershire leg of the challenge — an incredible effort that was part of the BBC’s nationwide 1,000-mile goal.
It was one of my favourite days — filled with laughter, teamwork, a few tangled steps, and most importantly, the joy of doing something that truly makes a difference.
How You Can Help
BBC Children in Need supports thousands of charities and projects helping young people across the UK. Every pound raised goes towards improving lives — whether it’s helping children feel safe, supported, or simply giving them a chance to smile again.
If you can, please donate and be part of the difference. Visit https://donate.bbcchildreninneed.co.uk/ to give what you can.
