Children in Need returns tonight, November 17th, for its 2023 edition, with coverage of the annual charity telethon airing on BBC One from 7pm to 10pm.
Those who were looking forward to watching the show were upset when a Beeb veteran disclosed that a popular part had been removed.
The Rickshaw Challenge debuted 13 years ago, with presenter Matt Baker teaming up with members of the public to pedal long distances.
However, Matt announced earlier this week on Instagram that the Rickshaw Challenge will not take place this year – he did not provide an explanation for the cancellation.
Speaking in a video shared with his followers, he said: ‘For those asking about the Rickshaw Challenge this year… I’m sorry to say, sadly, it’s not [happening].’
‘But I do want to say a massive, massive thank you to all of those young riders who’ve been in this saddle and to all of you who’ve donated over the years.’
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Citing ‘year by year’ changes to the programming and fundraising initiatives made by Children In Need, he explained why the challenge didn’t happen in 2023.
‘It’s a real disappointment not to be out riding on the UK streets as the Rickshaw Challenge has been a highlight of Children in Need for me for the past 13 years.’
Fans of the passenger cart were saddened to see it for what could be the last time in the film, which featured views of the rickshaw that has served Matt well over the previous decade.
‘I love Children in Need but so missed Matt and the Rickshaw Challenge this year. It’s as synonymous as Pudsey for this wonderful fund raiser,’ one fan said.
A second person said, ‘[the BBC is] losing ground by cutting Matt on the Rickshaw Challenge,’ before calling for the license fee to be scrapped in retaliation.
Many others had inquired about the status of the fatal challenge in the weeks leading up to Children In Need’s live programme, and were heartbroken by the news.
Vernon Kay‘s ultramarathon, which has raised £4,000, is one physical challenge that has gone forward this year and is due to be finished today.
Vernon completed the ultramarathon in his hometown, Toughsheet Community Stadium, after running from Leicester to Bolton over four days.
Once he crossed the finish line, he told his Radio 2 colleague Zoe Ball that the endurance test was ‘one of the most painful and joyous experiences I’ve ever had.’
He then joked that he needed a new knee.
After jogging 116 miles since Monday, the Radio 2 host received a letter of encouragement and congratulations from his wife of 20 years, Tess Daly.
‘Absolutely gutted not to be at the finish line to cheer you on today!,’ she lamented. ‘I’m at Strictly… but what a moment, what an achievement.’
The charity telethon raised an astonishing £35,000,000 last year, with £39 million raised in 2021 and £37 million contributed during the 2020 broadcast.
Watch Children In Need on BBC One from 7pm on November 17.
