'Bavin’s Big Bikeathon': BBC Radio Northampton presenter to cycle 100 miles in 12 hours for Children in Need

BBC Radio Northampton presenter Wayne Bavin will be cycling 100 miles in 12 hours on a static bike for Children in Need next week.

Bavin’s Big Bikeathon will see Wayne go on a virtual tour of Northamptonshire on the bike, even while hosting the Afternoon Show.

“I'm used to cycling for a couple of hours with my teenage son Josh, but 12 hours in the saddle is going to be a real challenge that I'm looking forward to," he said.

The challenge will start at 6am on Friday, November 13, and Wayne will be presenting his show from 2-6pm live from the bike – with his marathon finishing live on the radio.

The coronavirus pandemic has thrown up a lot of challenges when it comes to supporting Children in Need but Wayne was not going to let a lockdown get in the way of raising vital money.

“I do something for Children in Need every year but due to Covid, working out what we were able to do was a bit of headache," he said.

"The Bikeathon will be fun and yes I may walk funny for a few days after the event but it'll be worth it. Watch out Bradley Wiggins!”

As well as a radio presenter, Wayne is also starring in this year’s pantomime at The Deco theatre in Northampton – with the arts holding a special place in his heart.

This love for the theatre will see him virtually check-in at some of the county’s biggest performing arts venues, from The Core at Corby Cube, to the Royal and Derngate in Northampton.

To support Wayne, visit donate.bbcchildreninneed.co.uk.