Vernon Kay has been hailed a hero as he crossed the finishing line completing his gruelling ultramarathon challenge for Children in Need.

The Radio 2 presenter started off on his 115 mile journey to home to Bolton, and arrived at the home of his beloved football club, Bolton Wanderers at 10.10am today - before stopping off at St Joseph's RC High School, his old school.The Northern Echo: Vernon Kay completes his Ultra Ultra Marathon Challenge for BBC Children in Need on BBC Radio 2 at the Toughsheet Community Stadium in Bolton on Friday 17th November 2023. Photo by James Watkins

Helen Thomas, Head of BBC Radio 2 said: “Vernon is a total hero! That was one of the hardest challenges ever attempted for BBC Children in Need, but it was the incredible support he’s received from the public all along the way that spurred him on and gave him what he needed to keep on going.

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"We’re so very grateful to all the Radio 2’s listeners that have donated, with a total now well over £4 million and rising! Thank you Vernon and all the team who have supported him.”

Tommy Nagra, Director of Content at BBC Children in Need said: “BBC Radio 2 and its generous listeners always excel when it comes to supporting BBC Children in Need.

"At a time when times are so hard for so many people, Vernon has captured the hearts of the nation during his epic four day challenge.

"He is an inspiration and we are so thankful to him. The money he has raised will make a difference to so many young lives. Vernon now deserves a well-earned rest!”

The Northern Echo: Vernon Kay completes his Ultra Ultra Marathon Challenge for BBC Children in Need on BBC Radio 2 at the Toughsheet Community Stadium in Bolton on Friday 17th November 2023. Photo by James Watkins

Guests on The Zoe Ball Breakfast Show broadcast from Bolton Wanderer’s Football Stadium included:

• Performance from Emeli Sandé

• Performance from Ultra Naté

• Bolton’s Eagley Band

• Gemstone Cheer & Dance cheerleaders

• Lofty the Lion - the sports mascot for Bolton Wanderers FC

• Two Marines (Tom and Jamie) from The Band of His Majesty’s Royal Marines Portsmouth who drummed Vernon home

• Zoe spoke to Phoenix who benefits from one of the projects supported by BBC Children in Need

• And Richie Anderson caught up with some of Vernon’s old teachers at his old school

• Vernon’s mum and dad, Gladys and Norman and other family members were there

• Barbara – who wrote Vernon a heartfelt letter when he started at Radio 2 saying he’s brought her into the sunshine and sent an emotional message of support during the run which brought him to tears - https://www.instagram.com/reel/CzqzOH1sZU9

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En route to Bolton, presenter Richie Anderson was at Vernon’s old secondary, Saint Joseph's RC High School.

Vernon said: I’m absolutely exhausted. I’m absolutely spent. Physically, mentally, there’s nothing in the tank.

"I’m so glad that I went to St. Joseph’s first because that was a real boost. We were coming through Bolton at the top and everyone was beeping their horns. It just really elevates you. Is there anyone here who can replace a knee?!... It’s been absolutely unbelievable. Literally unbelievable.

"It’s been one of the most painful and joyous experiences I’ve ever had. It’s been painful but people that we’ve met along the way, bear with me [crying], we’ve met some brilliant people who’ve donated all they can.

"Just one foot in front of the other, that’s what it was. It was great that we had a great team who have been absolutely brilliant. Pushing me along and motivating me.

"So thanks to the gang. JP, Mark, Nick – Nick’s had his thumbs where not many people have so - that’s the masseuse - thanks Nick. Chris on security as well. Obviously Professor Greg."

Donate to Children in Need here

All pictures courtesy of BBC.