Share
17th November 2023
12:54pm GMT
Vernon Kay crossed the finishing line in tears after learning that he raised £4m for Children In Need while completing his ultramarathon challenge.
Kay ran a gruelling 116 mile route from Leicester to his hometown of Bolton over the course of four days.
The TV presenter was met by thousands of fans cheering him on just after 9.30am on Friday, before running into the Bolton Wanderers football stadium at 10am.
He was greeted by cheerleaders, a brass band and even Pudsey Bear, who whooped and cheered his arrival.
Vernon's mum and dad were also present and embraced him with a warm hug. His wife, Tess Daly, posted to say she was "absolutely gutted" not to be in attendance due to filming the latest Strictly Come Dancing episode in Blackpool.
After completing the race, Kay thanked everyone who had donated to the cause.
He was in tears as he said: "It has been absolutely unbelievable. One of the most painful, but joyful experiences.
"The best part of the challenge has been seeing everyone out on the streets, whooping and cheering, that has just been amazing."
The 50-year-old admitted that he was "mentally and physically exhausted" before the challenge.
Radio 2 presenter Zoe Ball then had an extra surprise as he introduced Kay to Barbara, a fan who had called into the show, leaving fans and Vernon in tears.
"Your letter, I'll cherish forever. Tess has framed it for me in the kitchen," he tearfully said.
Related links:
Explore more on these topics:
