Educators and young people across the southwest have taken on physical challenges to raise money for Children in Need, with efforts ranging from marathon runs to decorated cupcakes as part of the charity's 2026 campaign.
At Perranporth Community School in Cornwall, reception teacher Amy Williamson and Year 3 teacher Laura Pryor each ran 13 miles to reach school in time for assembly, combining their efforts to cover 26 miles between them. The pair were inspired by the number 26, which forms the basis of this year's fundraising initiative. According to BBC News, the teachers have already raised £5,000 for the charity through their efforts.
Williamson explained the motivation behind their challenge: "As a teacher we're always trying to champion our underserved children and Children in Need as a charity does exactly that. We wanted to do an epic run."
Similar initiatives are taking place elsewhere in the region. Marine Academy in Plymouth is hosting BBC Devon as staff members complete a 26-hour treadmill run for the organisation. These local efforts are part of a broader campaign to transport Pudsey, the Children in Need mascot, from Land's End to John O'Groats.
What is the 2026 Children in Need campaign about?
The 2026 "Challenge Yourself" campaign invited people to create fundraisers inspired by the number 26, according to BBC Media Centre. This theme has motivated participants across the UK to design their own challenges, from running distances to other creative activities.
How are young people getting involved?
Sixteen-year-old Harriet, a BBC Make a Difference Young Hero finalist in 2026, decorated cupcakes with Pudsey's face while working at a cafe near St Austell. "I enjoy baking and I thought it would be a good idea to put Pudsey on the cupcakes," she said. "I think helping others is important so people know they're not alone and get support elsewhere."
Why does Children in Need matter?
Children in Need said nearly half a million children were going without its support when they needed it, with the 2026 campaign's aim being to help ensure every child has someone by their side, according to BBC Pudsey. Since its first major appeal in 1980, the organisation has raised more than £1 billion for charities and projects across the UK. The 2025 appeal alone raised £45,507,536.
What major fundraising efforts are underway?
BBC Radio 2 presenter Owain Wyn Evans began a five-day cycle challenge on 9 November, covering nearly 400 miles through all four UK nations and aiming to finish in Cardiff on 13 November, according to BBC Media Centre. This high-profile challenge sits alongside the grassroots efforts of teachers and students across the country.
What happens next?
The 2026 Children in Need Appeal Show is scheduled to air on BBC One at 7pm on Friday 13 November, providing a platform to celebrate fundraising efforts and raise awareness of the charity's work across the UK.
