Paddy McGuinness has completed his awe-inspiring 300-mile cycling journey for BBC Children in Need, raising a jaw-dropping £7.5 million. The former Top Gear host, 51, kicked off his ride on a retro Raleigh Chopper from Wrexham in Wales and crossed the finish line at BBC Scotland HQ in Glasgow to a hero’s welcome.
Cheers erupted as fans and bagpipers celebrated his arrival, with singer Chesney Hawkes belting out “The One and Only” to mark the milestone. The challenge, dubbed “Paddy: The Ride of My Life,” will air in a BBC One documentary on November 19, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the highs and lows of the five-day ordeal.
From the start, Paddy knew it wouldn’t be easy. “I know it’s going to be brutal. I know it’s going to be hell,” he admitted before setting off. And he was right.
Over the course of five grueling days, Paddy cycled through torrential rain, thick fog, and steep climbs across rural Britain. Day 4 tested him the most as he faced a 64-mile stretch across 12 punishing hours, climbing 1,040 feet to Beattock and tackling endless roads alongside the River Annan.
But it wasn’t all pain. The journey had magical moments too. A surprise appearance by Olympic cycling legend Sir Chris Hoy on Day 4 left Paddy stunned. “It’s like a football fan kicking about with Messi,” he said. The two even danced to “Agadoo” at a pit stop — an unforgettable scene.
Another major supporter, philanthropist Sir Tom Hunter, promised to double every donation up to £3 million, sending totals soaring.
The love and encouragement from fans along the route fuelled Paddy’s emotional journey. He often broke down in tears during radio call-ins, especially after learning the donations had passed £1 million early in the challenge. “I’m absolutely in bits physically and emotionally, but I will miss this. I will miss the love, the positivity.”
Even fellow comedian Peter Kay called in to give Paddy a morale boost. Musician Blue reworked their hit into “All Ride” to keep him pedaling.
Riding his aptly named bike, ‘Patch,’ described as “a house brick with two wheels,” Paddy pushed through with grit and humor. He credited the BBC team, fellow riders like Grace from The One Show, and the entire nation for their support.
The final leg into Glasgow was unforgettable. Thousands gathered, the air buzzing with music and cheers, as Paddy rolled in victorious.
While he’s physically battered, Paddy says he feels forever changed by the experience. “You will leave a better person. You’ll feel the love. Let’s go out in style.”
And style, he certainly did.
The BBC documentary “Paddy: The Ride Of My Life” airs Tuesday, November 19, at 8pm on BBC One.
