TV personality Matt Baker has tackled a rickshaw ride across the North East to raise money for this year's Children in Need campaign. 

Alongside Alexander Walker, a 16-year-old Sunderland native, Matt rode from Sunderland to Durham - all in aid of Children in Need, hoping to raise money for life-changing projects up and down the country. 

Supporters poured out onto the streets to cheer on the rickshaw, piloted by Alexander, in spite of wind and chills - eager to encourage this beloved Children in Need tradition.

The Northern Echo: Supporters came out in droves to cheer on the rickshaw. Picture: Stu Bolton Supporters came out in droves to cheer on the rickshaw. Picture: Stu Bolton (Image: Stu Bolton)

Speaking The Northern Echo, Matt explained why the challenge means so much to him.

He said: "It stands for everything that Children in Need is about. Give these kids a chance, give them a bit of support, and watch them fly - and Alexander has done that in spades today. 

"It's my twelfth year of the rickshaw challenge, but I think you can sense what keeps bringing me back. As we came up Durham streets, the number of people out on the street and supporting is incredible. It's really emotional for me."

"All of our riders have had their lives changed by the generosity of the people who donate - the Rickshaw Relay shows what good it can do, as those who were children in need are now adults with a future. 

"My role is to help them tell their stories - it started with me riding the rickshaw from Edinburgh down to London, but I knew there was so much more to the relay than just people off the telly." 

The Northern Echo: The rickshaw battled with Durham's hills. Stu Bolton The rickshaw battled with Durham's hills. Stu Bolton (Image: Stu Bolton)

Alexander was similarly enthused with the Rickshaw Relay challenge, saying: "It has been absolutely amazing. My favourite part has been that people have given up their time to come and watch me, and support us on the ride.

"It is dream come true -  and even a small amount of money can make a big difference to someone. The Rickshaw Relay is very important to me."

Children in Need is one of the UK's most popular charities and is able to support thousands of children and their families every year. 

Alexander is one of the young people helped by Children in Need. After being diagnosed with autism aged 2, Alexander often struggled to connect with others and for a few years, he didn’t talk at all. 

However, with the help of Children in Need life started to improve for Alexander and his family. Two local charities Grace House and The Foundation of Light, both supported by BBC Children in Need, allowed Alexander to build life skills, have fun, and grow in confidence.

The Northern Echo: Children in Need enthusiasts lines the streets. Picture: Stu Bolton Children in Need enthusiasts lines the streets. Picture: Stu Bolton (Image: Stu Bolton)

Matt rounded off by saying: "Children in Need is an institution - the weather turns, and for me, it is rickshaw time. The whole country starts to prepare for Children in Need. 

"We still have so many people in need in the UK, even though we shouldn't. But we do our best to help them as neighbours - Britain has that wonderful community spirit, and that is what Children in Need is all about."

You can follow Matt's journey as he rides alongside inspirational young people from across the UK by tuning into BBC Breakfast from 17 to 21 October. The Rickshaw Relay Rides Again documentary is due to air as part of the BBC's Children in Need campaign on 15 November. 

 

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