Radio 2 presenter Owain Wyn Evans became emotional after learning his four-nation cycling challenge had raised more than £1 million for BBC Children in Need. Colleagues Gary Davies and DJ Spoony told him on Wednesday (November 11) that the fundraising total had reached £1,049,660 as he continued his 400-mile journey across the UK.
Reacting to the news, an overwhelmed Evans said: “Over a million pounds! Oh my gosh, that's incredible... That is a big, big moment. That's so much money, and I know how generous people have been and I want to thank everyone who's donated.”
Greatest distance in Radio 2 challenge history
The Welsh broadcaster is taking on the greatest distance ever covered in a Radio 2 fundraising challenge, cycling nearly 400 miles across Scotland, Northern Ireland, England and his home country of Wales over five days. He started in Glasgow on Monday, November 9, and is due to complete the challenge in central Cardiff on Friday, November 13, which is also the date of this year's BBC Children in Need appeal.
Along the route, he is taking in some of the UK's most spectacular scenery, from Scotland's rugged coastline and Northern Ireland's green landscapes to the historic backdrop of North West England and the rolling hills of Wales.
Physical setbacks and emotional moments
The challenge has already proved physically demanding. Evans suffered a knee injury on the first day before later falling off his bike and hitting his shoulder against the kerb. Despite these setbacks, he has remained determined to finish the ride, with Wednesday marking the third day of his challenge.
He also became emotional reflecting on the support he had received from members of the public, including children who had gathered along the route to cheer him on.
Funds to support children across the UK
Speaking live to Toni McDonald on BBC Radio Stoke, Hereford and Worcester and Shropshire, Evans said knowing how donations would help children had made the challenge even more meaningful. He said: “It's making me feel very emotional meeting people and hearing where this money's going to go. Children in Need can only fund one in six of the projects that approach it for support. Wouldn't it be amazing to make that number a bit less stark?”
The money raised will help support children and young people across the UK. His journey is due to conclude in Cardiff on Friday, when the nation will come together for the annual BBC Children in Need appeal.
