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Fundraisers gear up for Children in Need challenge

Julia Gregory
Perranporth Community School The two teachers are both wearing yellow hooded jumpsuits with Pudsey ears in the hood. They also have trainers on. They are pointing to a sign reading Perranporth Community Primary School.Perranporth Community School
Teachers Laura Pryor and Amy Williamson getting ready for the "school run"

Children and teachers are set to complete a running challenge as part of this year's efforts to fundraise for Children in Need.

Inspired by the number 26, Perranporth Community School reception teacher Amy Williamson and Year 3 teacher Laura Pryor were each running a half marathon by clocking up 26 miles between them to arrive at school in time for assembly.

Marine Academy in Plymouth is also hosting BBC Devon as teachers there complete a 26-hour run on the treadmill for the charity.

It is part of a collective effort to get Pudsey from Land's End to John O'Groats for the fundraising challenge.

Williamson said they wanted to do an "epic" run and have already raised £5,000 for the charity.

"As a teacher we're always trying to champion our underserved children and Children in Need as a charity does exactly that," she said.

Harriet holds a tray of yellow cakes which she has decorated. She is flanked by Pudsey and a small Pudsey sitting on the kitchen surface.
Cooking up a storm with help from Pudsey

Ahead of completing her challenge, 16-year-old Harriet had a special visitor while at work at a cafe near St Austell.

Harriet, who was a BBC Make a Difference Young Hero finalist in 2026, decorated cupcakes with the Pudsey's face.

"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."

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