Prince William has sent a heartfelt message to BBC Radio 2 presenter Sara Cox, praising her remarkable achievement as she completed an extraordinary challenge for BBC Children in Need. Sara, known for her upbeat personality and infectious humour on air, took on one of the toughest fundraising tasks of her career — running the equivalent of five full marathons in just five days.
BBC Children in Need supports thousands of young people across the UK, funding vital services that help children facing mental health struggles, poverty, social inequality, disabilities, and family hardships. Sara’s effort was part of the broadcaster’s annual push to raise awareness and funds for these essential programmes.
Prince William surprises Sara Cox with a touching video message
To mark Sara’s tremendous commitment, Prince William appeared in a surprise pre-recorded clip broadcast on November 14 during her Radio 2 segment. His encouraging words left the presenter visibly moved.
William said warmly:
“Sara, massive congratulations for what you’re doing. You’re so nearly there, just a little bit further. I know the people of Pudsey will all come out and welcome you with huge open arms, big hugs, and hopefully, lots of your favourite crumpets. Keep going — you’ve done fantastically well, and the nation’s so proud of you.”
Sara, clearly touched, could be heard reacting live on air, saying: “Wow, thanks, William. Thank you. Thanks very much,” as she fought back emotion.
Sara Cox’s Great Northern Marathon Challenge
Over the course of five intense days, Sara ran 135 miles through some of Northern England’s most scenic and demanding routes. Beginning in Kielder Forest, she travelled through Northumberland, County Durham, North Yorkshire and West Yorkshire, before finishing her final stretch in Pudsey — the hometown of BBC Children in Need’s beloved mascot.
Her challenge has already raised more than £6 million, with donations still pouring in from listeners, viewers, and supporters across the UK.
Reflecting on the public’s generosity, a tearful Sara said:
“Everybody just giving a fiver or a tenner did it — that is amazing. Thank you so much. Thanks to everybody who has donated, you’re absolutely awesome.”
Her finish coincided perfectly with the live broadcast of Children in Need 2025 on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, giving her achievement even greater visibility.
Fans praise Prince William’s message
Social media lit up with admiration for both Sara’s grit and William’s thoughtful gesture.
One Instagram user wrote: “How wonderful.”
Another added: “What a wonderful message from Prince William to our Superwoman @djsaracox. Let’s hope this gives Sara a massive boost!”
A third commented: “Such a lovely, heartwarming message. You’ve got this Sara — dig deep. We are all in complete awe!”
Sara ran the equivalent of five marathons in five days to raise money for Children in Need (Credit: SplashNews.com)
Prince William’s week of surprise appearances
Sara was not the only one to receive an unexpected video message from the Prince of Wales. On November 11, William appeared on the US show Dancing with the Stars — the American counterpart to the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing — offering encouragement to contestant and wildlife conservationist Robert Irwin.
Wearing a crisp white shirt, William told the young dancer:
“Guys, you’ve got a seriously good chance of winning it, so the best of luck on the show.”
The gesture sparked excitement among fans on both sides of the Atlantic and highlighted William’s ongoing support for charitable initiatives and public figures making a positive impact.
(Source: BBC News)
