Photo by Stephen Kidd on Unsplash
The Countryfile Ramble is returning for its 12th year, with four presenters and five remarkable young people taking on a walking challenge through the Peak District.
Matt Baker, Anita Rani, Margherita Taylor and Joe Crowley will visit the Hollowford Centre, tackling outdoor challenges and hearing how BBC Children in Need-funded projects have helped young people overcome adversity and gain confidence.
Matt will walk with Jay and Aine, whose brother Eoin was born with Cri du Chat syndrome and requires full-time care. They receive support from the Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice sibling support group, which gives siblings of children with complex and life-limiting conditions a safe place to share experiences and meet others who understand.
Joe will team up with Tadiwa, who was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour at 18 months old and underwent nine years of aggressive treatment. Now partially sighted, Tadiwa has built confidence, resilience and independence through sailing adventures organised by the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust.
Anita will ramble with Grace, who developed rare brain damage at five days old, resulting in quadriplegic cerebral palsy and deafness. For six years, Grace has attended Seashell Trust’s CADS programme, enjoying specialist activities and disabled sport that help her develop skills and connect with others.
Margherita will walk alongside Bethan, who has beaten cancer three times. Team Jak has provided Bethan and her family with emotional and practical support throughout their experience of childhood cancer.
Countryfile Presenter, John Craven, said: “What I love most about Countryfile Ramble is meeting remarkable children and young people and hearing their stories.
This year, we’ll be shining a light on the incredible impact that support can have, and how having somewhere to go, something to do and someone to talk to can make a difference. Every child needs someone by their side, especially when times are tough. BBC Children in Need are working to make sure no child has to face life’s challenges alone.”
Claire Hoyle, Chief Executive at BBC Children in Need, said: “The Countryfile Ramble is a wonderful opportunity to come together and celebrate the difference that support can make to children and young people. Every child needs someone by their side, especially when times are tough, and through BBC Children in Need we’re working to make sure no child has to face life’s challenges alone.”
John and Pudsey will also meet families and staff from Lindley Educational Trust, which runs the Hollowford Centre. The Trust receives £43,232 over three years from BBC Children in Need to fund a youth worker supporting children in Ashton.
Viewers can further support the appeal by purchasing a Countryfile Bobble Hat, with 29% of the price donated to BBC Children in Need.
