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Roger’s colleagues step up after injury ends BBC presenter’s running challenge
BBC presenter Roger Johnson had to abandon his plan to run 41km for Children in Need after a long-standing foot problem worsened and left him unable to do more than hobble. More than 30 colleagues from the BBC North West Tonight newsroom stepped in, turning the challenge into a team effort that raised miles beyond his target.
Together, they ran more than 160 miles, far exceeding the 26.2-mile goal. Johnson linked their generosity to the appeal’s aim of bringing people together to help others, and said the experience had taught him not to be complacent about taking on a challenge. Children in Need 2026 will be broadcast on BBC One and iPlayer at 19:00 GMT on 13 November.
In short
- A foot injury stopped Roger Johnson’s running challenge.
- More than 30 colleagues ran over 160 miles together.
- Their effort far exceeded the 26.2-mile target.
Explained simply
BBC presenter Roger Johnson works on North West Tonight, the BBC’s regional news programme for north-west England. He had planned to run 41 kilometres for Children in Need, the BBC’s annual fundraising appeal, but a long-standing foot problem made him stop.
Children in Need raises money for charities and projects supporting children and young people across the UK. The appeal brings together BBC staff and viewers to raise funds, and Johnson’s challenge became a way for his newsroom colleagues to take part together.