Prince William Praises Sara Cox’s Herculean Fund-Raising Effort for BBC Children in Need

Sara Cox has been widely applauded after completing a remarkable five-day challenge in support of the BBC’s annual charity appeal. The broadcaster ran, walked and jogged a total of 135 miles—the equivalent of five marathons—in five consecutive days across four counties in northern England for Children in Need. (Sources: The Guardian; The Independent) The Guardian+2The Independent+2

A Surprise from the Future King

To further back her efforts, Prince William, Prince of Wales recorded a surprise video message of congratulations, which aired on BBC Radio 2 on 14 November. In the clip he told Cox:

“Sara, massive congratulations for what you’re doing. You’re so nearly there, just a little bit further … I know the people of Pudsey will all come out and welcome you with huge open arms, big hugs, and hopefully, lots of your favourite crumpets. Keep going, you’ve done fantastically well, and the nation’s so proud of you.” People.com+1
Cox, visibly moved during the broadcast, responded live: “Wow, thanks William. Thank you. Thanks very much.”

The Challenge: From Kielder Forest to Pudsey

Cox’s undertaking—dubbed the Great Northern Marathon Challenge—began in Kielder Forest, Northumberland on Monday 10 November and culminated five days later in Pudsey, Leeds, carrying a dedicated Pudsey-Bear backpack. Her route spanned Northumberland, Durham, North Yorkshire and West Yorkshire. (Sources: The Independent; The Guardian) The Independent+1
Along the way she battled not only steep hills and long miles but harsh weather, cold conditions and physical fatigue. On completion, she told media: “That was the hardest thing I’ve ever done … Oh my gosh, I can’t believe it.” The Guardian+1

Fund-Raising Impact and Emotional Moments

By the end of the route, Cox had raised over £7 million, with some reports citing figures nearing £9.5 million in total contributions to Children in Need. (Sources: The Independent; The Guardian) The Independent+1
She credited the public’s small donations—“everybody just giving a five or a tenner did it, that is amazing”—and the support from towns, roadside motorists, and village residents who cheered her on. (Source: The Independent) The Independent
Further, she used the journey to pay tribute to her late brother, noting how his memory and the sheer strength of everyday people powered her through. (Source: The Sun)

Why It Resonates

The fact that a mainstream broadcaster like Sara Cox would undertake such a grueling challenge underscores the public appeal of large-scale charity efforts—particularly those aligned with Children in Need’s mission to support young people facing mental health, poverty, social inequality and family-related issues.
Prince William’s public endorsement elevated the event further, highlighting the royal family’s ongoing connection to national charity efforts. His mention of “your favourite crumpets” added a personal touch, making the encouragement feel warm and relatable.

What’s Next

For Cox: after crossing the finish line, she will likely take some recovery time before returning to her BBC Radio 2 slot, with fans eagerly following her post-challenge reflections.
For Children in Need: the substantial fund-raising total puts renewed focus on the charity’s ability to mobilise public generosity.
For the Prince of Wales: the video emphasises his interest in visibility in charity-led initiatives and signals continuity in his philanthropic engagement.