'I'm going to give it as much welly as I can' - Sara Cox begins 5 marathons TODAY

Sara Cox Begins Challenge of Five Marathons in Five Days

After months of preparation, Sara Cox from Little Lever, Bolton, is ready to start a significant challenge for Children in Need. The BBC Radio 2 presenter will run the equivalent of five marathons, covering a total of 135 miles on foot over five days across four counties.

Starting the Great Northern Marathon Challenge

On Sunday evening, Sara shared with her 545,000 Instagram followers:

“Welcome to the calm before the storm. I’m watching Countryfile, in Northumberland, having a lovely time. Tomorrow (Monday), I’ll start my epic Great Northern Marathon Challenge – 135 miles – from Kielder Forest all the way to Pudsey in Leeds. Thanks for all your messages on Instagram, they’ve given me such a boost.”

This morning Sara appeared on the Radio 2 Breakfast Show with Scott Mills as the challenge commenced around 8:15 am.

Determined Despite Setbacks

Sara admitted to feeling unwell but remains determined:

“I’ll be up super early, my knees will be a-knocking but I am going to give it as much welly as I can despite having a slight lurgy. Let’s do this and raise loads of money for Children in Need.”

Following Local Heroes

Sara follows the path of fellow Bolton personalities and Radio 2 colleagues Paddy McGuinness and Vernon Kay, who have completed their own charity challenges in recent years, raising millions of pounds for Children in Need.

The determined presenter’s effort will help support this important cause while inspiring many with her dedication and community spirit.

Summary: Sara Cox begins her five-day, 135-mile marathon challenge to raise funds for Children in Need, showing determination despite feeling unwell and following in the footsteps of other Bolton celebrities.

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The Bolton News The Bolton News — 2025-11-10