Paddy McGuinnes sets off on his cycle challenge for Children in Need

Earlier today, Paddy McGuinness, set off on Radio 2’s Ultra Endurance Cycle Challenge for BBC Children in Need.

The Radio 2 presenter spoke to Zoe Ball on her Breakfast Show just before setting off from Wrexham AFC to Glasgow on a Raleigh Chopper in what will probably be one of the hardest weeks of Paddy’s life.

Actor Michael Sheen left a voicenote for Paddy saying: “Hello Paddy, it’s your old mate Michael Sheen here. What a fantastic thing you’re doing here.

“I want to give you as much support as possible, so as inspiration – I’m going to do a bike ride as well!  I’m going to go from this wall here, all the way across to that wall over there. If I can do it, *grunts* you can do it, mate!  Good luck, all the best *grunts*! All the best!”

Before setting off on his challenge, Paddy spoke to Dot Davies and James Williams from BBC Radio Wales about what it was like to train with Sir Chris Hoy.

“It’s like being a football fan and having a kickabout with Messi,” he told them. “ If you’re a cyclist you’d give your right arm to train with him. He’s so inspiring he gets me through the days when were out training and he’s just a pleasure to be around.”

He went on to explain why he chose the chopper bike for his challenge: “I could never afford one always wanted one its iconic I love the shape of it. That’s going to be the star of the show, kids are going to love this, and then the mums and dads can sort of have the rose-tinted spectacles on and take themselves back to their own childhoods,” he said.

Chris Hoy left a message for Paddy: “There is no doubt this will be the toughest thing that you ever do. There’s no two ways about it.

“The next five days are going to be gruelling. Hill after hill after hill. Paddy you must keep pedalling on your little chopper.

“This will be five relentless days over brutal terrain but when it gets really tough just remember why you’re doing this.

“You’re doing this to inspire the nation. You’re doing this for Children in Need. And we’re all behind you.

“And just remember that every mile you ride is a mile closer to getting off that saddle. Paddy you’re a hero and whatever happens we’re so proud of you. Now: On your bike!”

You can get updates on Paddy’s progress on Radio 2’s live blog and track him along the route on the Children in Need website.