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BBC Dorset

BBC local radio prepares for Children in Need three-legged walk

4 November 2025

Curtis LancasterSouth of England

BBC Katie Tyler and Sophie Drew, who are tied together and wearing high visibility vests and Pudsey ears. — Katie Tyler and Sophie Drew are among the presenters taking part in the challenge

Radio presenters in the south have been taking tips from record-breaking walkers as they prepare to put their legs together for Children in Need.

They are joining 40 BBC local radio stations, challenged by Pudsey, to take on a three-legged walk that will see them trek a combined total of 1,000 miles.

Volunteers from each station will be tied together and hope to cover 25 miles during two days.

BBC Radio Solent, BBC Radio Oxford and BBC Radio Berkshire have laced up their trainers for the big event which starts at 08:00 GMT.

Three-legged running expert Gary Shaughnessy gives his advice

Gary Shaughnessy on the left walking through a car park with Katie Tyler and Sophie Drew, who are tied together and wearing high visibility vests and Pudsey ears. — Three-legged running expert Gary Shaughnessy gives his advice

“So finally three-legged running has become trendy again,” said Gary Shaughnessy from Tadley.

Alongside his friend Andy, he holds the world record for the longest distance run in three-legged race in 24 hours, at an incredible 72.7 miles (117km).

He gave his words of wisdom to Katie Tyler and Sophie Drew, who are embarking on the challenge for BBC Radio Berkshire.

He said: “Think about it that people are laughing with you rather than laughing at you, because they are probably laughing at you but when you think they are laughing with you, it makes you feel better anyway.”

The broadcasters will set off from different parts of the county strapped to volunteers who will provide the extra leg.

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“I can’t believe it’s that time of year again for a crazy challenge for Children In Need,” said Sophie Law who will be marching across Oxfordshire.

She added: “I’m looking forward to getting going – I just hope I don’t get The Proclaimers – I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) stuck on loop in my head for the whole distance.”

Three-legged challenge prep involves making tea?

Stomping across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight will be Katie Martin and her band of helpers.

Starting from The Needles on the island she will venture forward with chalk under her feet.

The other half of the BBC Radio Solent team will be represented by Steve Harris who will be travelling across Dorset.

He has been working on his synchronicity with producer Harry Kille-Smith by making cups of tea while lassoed together in the office.

He will set off from Portland Bill Lighthouse and hopes to arrive at Bovington Tank Museum at the close of day one of the challenge.