The challenge begins
Paddy McGuinness set off from Wrexham on a five-day, 300-mile cycle to Glasgow for BBC Children in Need.
The distance would have been difficult on a conventional road bike.
Paddy was instead riding a modified childhood-style Raleigh Chopper, with an uncomfortable seat, unusual gear position and far more weight than a long-distance machine.
His first day involved 67 miles towards Liverpool.
Scott stayed with the challenge throughout the afternoon, following the tracker and reading support from listeners along the route.
Across the Mersey
Paddy boarded the ferry across the River Mersey after completing roughly 30 miles.
He used the crossing as a short opportunity to rest while looking back at Liverpool’s skyline.
When he reached the other side, teacher Miss Morgan-Beachy and around 60 Year Three pupils greeted him by singing Yellow Submarine.
Scott described the moment as one of the highlights of the opening day.
Kev’s swimming challenge
Radio Merseyside’s Kev spoke to Scott about taking part in local radio’s wider 1,000-mile Children in Need swimming challenge.
Kev had been unable to swim properly only three and a half weeks earlier and had a serious fear of placing his head underwater.
He learned in time to help complete 24 miles in 24 hours with the Merseyside team.
Kev said he was proud not only of raising money but of inspiring other people with similar fears to begin swimming.
The first total
As darkness arrived, Paddy admitted he was exhausted and already suffering badly from the bike seat.
He said the crowds lining the route and children handing over pocket money had kept him moving.
Scott revealed the first fundraising total: £80,125.
Paddy was overwhelmed by the amount raised so early in the challenge.
Lion King fundraising
Scott also reflected on a gala performance of The Lion King that had raised a further £50,000 for Children in Need.
No Birthday Game
The normal Birthday Game was dropped as the programme remained focused on Paddy’s opening day and live updates from the route.
Handover
Scott handed over to Sara Cox with Paddy still completing the final miles of day one.
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