Rotarians Meet Pudsey For The Arrival of Children In Need's Team Rickshaw

Border Counties Advertizer - 10th November
Rickshaw Challenge 2019: Oswestry's welcome blows away TV presenter Matt Baker
By Barrie White

Photos by Ian Haigh

Thousands of people lined the streets of Oswestry as the BBC Children in Need Rickshaw Challenge 2019 arrived at the Bailey Head on Sunday. The rickshaw, ridden by Emma Redgate, arrived to huge cheers from a packed square, guided by The One Show and Countryfile presenter Matt Baker, who is once again riding for the great cause, and met by Pudsey Bear too.

The team set off from Machynlleth in Mid Wales on Sunday morning and arrived in Oswestry at 6.30pm, to a welcome that blew Matt away.

"It was amazing – I don't think anyone is indoors in Oswestry," said Matt.

"It was lovely to see everyone lining the streets and sides when we came in. There's like an s-bend when we came around that corner and it was rammed with people.

"God knows how many thousands of people were out to see us tonight, but thank you, thank you, thank you for all of your support.

"It's amazing every time we arrive [somewhere new]. It's the support that keeps 'Team Rickshaw' going.

"This thing has been going for nine years and it captures the attention of people in Britain, wherever we go.

"People want to pay their respects for the youngsters that want to do this and it's a really tangible thing to want to donate to.

"The riders have benefitted from Children in Need donations in the past – they know what a difference they make.

"They want to give back, raise awareness for what they've had and say thanks to all that excellent care and attention they've had in the past.

"I think everyone really respects that and for Children in Need, who better to give your donation to than those who have needed it."

Oswestry mayor, Councillor John Price, was on hand to welcome the riders to the town.

He added: "The welcome for Children in Need was wonderful.

"It's a fantastic charity and everyone loves Pudsey. It was great to see people of all ages here, having a great time."

One person who was a surprise visitor was Emma's father David, who welcomed his daughter to the town, having made the journey up without telling her.

"I'm very proud," he said.

"I didn't plan to come but then someone rang and told me Emma was riding them in so it's only a few hours away.

"It was a great atmosphere and I was pleased to see coming into the end."