Herts sports therapy students supporting BBC Children in Need Thousand Mile Challenge

The ambitious endeavour will see BBC radio presenters across the nation walk a combined total of 1,000 miles, all while three-legged, on 4 and 5 November.

Each radio station will aim to complete a total of 25 miles over two days, with presenters joined at the ankle to fellow broadcasters, celebrities, and individuals who have been supported by BBC Children in Need donations.

Organised by The Society of Sports Therapists, Herts students will be supporting BBC Three Counties presenter Andy Collins and producer Kimberley Piper in Milton Keynes, as well as BBC London presenter Shay Kaur Grewal in the capital, during the walk-a-thon.

In preparation for the challenge, Andy and Kimberley and Shay visited the Institute of Sport, where they underwent a comprehensive consultation. This included ankle and hip mobility and strength assessments, balance and musculoskeletal testing, and expert advice to help them prepare physically and mentally for the walk.

Jenny Jones, Subject Group Lead for the Institute of Sport at the University of Hertfordshire, said:

“The University of Hertfordshire and The Society of Sports Therapists are delighted to support this inspiring challenge, which will raise vital funds for the many incredible causes backed by BBC Children in Need. It was a pleasure to host both BBC radio crews on campus, where they embraced our activities and insights with enthusiasm and resilience.

“This experience has given our students a meaningful opportunity to contribute to a national campaign, and their professionalism throughout has been truly commendable.”

The challenge kicked off at 6am on 4 November, with teams aiming to complete their segments by 7pm on Wednesday 5 November.

During the event, Herts Sports Therapy students Freya Durbin, Emily Adams, Matt Garrett Herbert, Michael Chaudrey and Jaayed Ahmed are on hand in Milton Keynes to support Andy and Kimberley, providing physiotherapy assistance, general guidance, and motivation. University staff are also available to assist with first aid if needed. Meanwhile, two other students - Jess Lea and Amy Kingsbury - are offering similar sports therapy to the BBC London team.

BBC Three Counties presenter Andy Collins said:

“Getting a full fitness overview ahead of the walk-a-thon at the Institute of Sport was a brilliant experience. Kimberley and I had been practising in the park and were a bit worried about how we’d manage. But the visit gave us a real confidence boost. We’ve learned so much and now know exactly what to do - it’s all about preparation, stretching, and getting your body ready.”

Learn more about the Children in Need Thousand Mile Challenge.

Find out more about University of Hertfordshire's Institute of Sport.