Wakefield schoolchildren complete 500-mile charity challenge with sports legends

Organised by BBC Radio Leeds and presented by the wonderful Gayle Lofthouse, the sports stars visited Outwood Primary Academy Lofthouse Gate, supporting pupils during their Run For Pudsey challenge, before joining them for a final ‘golden lap’ to mark the achievement.

The challenge was set when the students asked former professional triathlete and six-time world champion Brownlee to come out of retirement to join their fundraising efforts.

The children recorded a video asking Jonny to attend their school to help raise money for BBC Children in Need. Brownlee accepted during a live interview on BBC Radio Leeds speaking to presenter Gayle Lofthouse.

Brownlee’s involvement prompted Chris Kamara and Jack Sinfield to join the Run For Pudsey team.

For the challenge, pupils ran or walked laps of their school field, collectively covering 500 miles in just four hours and raising thousands of pounds for BBC Children in Need.

Jonny Brownlee said: “It was brilliant to see the enthusiasm and determination of all the children.

"To run or walk 500 miles collectively in just four hours is an incredible achievement and they should be so proud of themselves. It was a real privilege to join them for the golden lap and help celebrate everything they’ve achieved.”

Football and broadcasting legend Chris Kamara MBE said: “I absolutely loved being part of the day. The energy and smiles from the children were infectious and what they've achieved is fantastic.

"Having faced my own challenges with movement and getting back into running, I know how important it is to keep going, celebrate the little victories and enjoy being active.

"These youngsters have shown what can be achieved when everyone pulls together.”

Following in the footsteps of his father, Sir Kevin Sinfield, who has raised millions of pounds for motor neurone disease charities, Jack said: “It's been amazing to see what these youngsters have achieved. My dad has always shown me the importance of using sport to make a difference and today these children have done exactly that, fundraising for such a worthy cause.

"To raise thousands of pounds for BBC Children in Need is something they should be incredibly proud of. It was a privilege to be part of this Run or Pudsey challenge alongside my Wakefield Trinity teammates.”

BBC Radio Leeds Senior Content Producer Tracy Gee added: “We're incredibly proud to have supported the school with its Run For Pudsey challenge. The children have shown amazing commitment, enthusiasm and team spirit. It was wonderful to see Jonny, Chris and Jack joining in and helping to make the occasion so memorable.

" Most importantly, the money raised will make a real difference to children and families supported by BBC Children in Need.”