An emotional and exhausted Paddy McGuinness broke down yesterday as he thanked supporters who he said kept him going on his 300-mile charity cycle ride for BBC Children In Need.
The former Top Gear presenter and Question Of Sport host began his journey on Monday in Wrexham, Wales, and crossed the finish line in Glasgow yesterday morning, raising £7.5 million along the way.
The 51-year-old undertook the challenge on his dream childhood bike, a Raleigh Chopper, painted in the colours of the charity mascot Pudsey.
Shortly before 9am on Friday morning, McGuiness received a surprise visit from businessman Sir Tom Hunter who pledged to match every donation up to £3 million through his Hunter Foundation.
McGuiness was also joined for some of the Scottish leg by Olympic cycling hero Chris Hoy, in a moment described by the TV presenter as an ‘absolute treat’.
TV Presenter Paddy McGuiness has raised millions of pounds for charity following his 300-mile cycling odyssey from Wrexham to Glasgow
McGuiness was joined on the Scottish leg of his ride by former Olympian Sir Chris Hoy
McGuiness later described Hoy’s presence on the ride as ‘an absolute treat’
Concluding his incredible cycling journey at BBC Scotland’s Pacific Quay headquarters, McGuiness was met with crowds of people lining the streets in support of his charitable efforts.
Describing the moment he turned the last bend of the ride, McGuiness said: ‘I came around the corner there, what a sight, what a feeling, thank you so much everybody. Wow’.
Speaking after his charity odyssey, he said: ‘It sounds corny and cheesy, but honestly, every single person is what kept them pedals turning.’
Going on to reflect on the magnitude of the funds raised, the former Top Gear host remarked: ‘It’s a moment in time I will take to my grave, and I will never forget it’.
In his post-cycle remarks, McGuiness also commented on the challenges which were presented by riding a bike designed for children over such a great distance.
‘You’re in a stressed position all the time when you’re riding it. So that’s why my back keeps seizing up… my knees have gone now, they’re completely shot’, an exhausted McGuiness shared.
Thankfully for the TV host though, a physio was on hand at every juncture of the journey to ensure he crossed the finish line on Friday morning.
