Pudsey ramblers take to the streets of Ely to raise funds for Children in Need
Children in Need ramble at Ely - Credit: Archant
More than 1,000 ramblers donned their Pudsey Bear hats to walk through an autumnal Ely to raise thousands for Children in Need.
The Countryfile Ramble took place around the city yesterday (October 7) as presenter Ellie Harrison led the mass ramble alongside 14-year old Amy, who has been supported by Spread-a-Smile following a diagnosis of osteosarcoma in March 2017.
It is the fourth year of the Countryfile Ramble for BBC Children In Need, which has raised £4.1 million for the charity since 2015.
Littleport charity fundraiser Cathy Gibb-de Swarte also took part to help 19-year-old Elle, who suffers from a genetic brain disorder.
Elle, who has Rett syndrome, needs £10,000 for an eye gaze or eye tracking equipment which would help her verbally communicate.
“I can’t thank Cathy enough for highlighting our plight and hopefully we will get some response and feedback from the powers that be which would drastically change Elle’s life for good”, said Elle’s mother Tina Copsey.
Cathy had received support from local shops and individuals - especially knitting expert Sharon Bishop who created a miniature Pudsey and lady friend Blush.
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Pudsey hats were given out to the 2,000 BBC Country File ballot winners, of which 1,300 turned out on the day.
Allison, a post lady from up north, said: “My job sees me getting up every day at 4am and regularly getting exercise by walking and delivering post, so I thought, why not turn my healthy lifestyle into rambling for charity.”
The kilted duo David Harris and his partner Andrew Roguz from a village from outside Spalding, said that they were just happy be part of this “rambling explosion” and that we “should always put others first” especially when it comes to raising money for Children In Need.
The Children In Need theme in Littleport continues into next Saturday October 13, when Littleport’s very own music master Derek Timbers is holding a charity disco extravaganza at the ex-servicemen’s Club from 6pm till late.
The Countryfile walks will be broadcast as an extended programme on BBC One on October 28.
For more details visit www.bbc.co.uk/Pudsey.