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CHILDREN In Need fans have been left raging as the BBC axed a beloved part of show after 13 years – even Matt Baker has taken a swipe.
The annual fundraiser will be back on our screens this Friday, with the BBC promising “a jam-packed evening of sketches and performances featuring well-known faces as you’ve never seen them before.”
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However, one segment that has featured for the last 13 years will not be back for the 2023 fundraiser.
Matt Baker took to Instagram to address fans’ questions about the Rickshaw Challenge, which usually sees him team up with a group of youngsters to cycle epic distances to raise money for the charity.
In a video and accompanying caption he said: “Hi All, for those asking about the Rickshaw Challenge.
“I’m sorry to say that as BBC Children in Need’s programming offerings and fundraising initiatives change year by year, the Rickshaw challenge isn’t happening this year.
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“It’s a real disappointment not to be out riding on the UK streets as the Rickshaw Challenge has been a highlight of Children in Need for me for the past 13 years.
“I’d like to thank you supporters for all the lives you’ve helped Team Rickshaw change and the impact you’ve had on so many young people.
“You’ve been incredible! Please get behind this years appeal in any way you can – from our Countryfile Ramble to your local fundraisers, as I’ve witnessed first hand, its remarkable what can be achieved when we all get stuck in together #thankyou.”
Matt wasn’t the only one who was disappointed by the news, as one fan replied: “Not sure whose decision it was to end the Rickshaw Challenge tradition but it certainly was a bad move.
“Your enthusiasm and dedication were infectious and the young people who took part were so proud to doing their bit. Thank for answering my question Matt.”
Another added: “Such a shame . This had become such a core essential of Children in Need. It captured the essence of the appeal, featured phenomenal young people and involved and engaged the whole nation.”
A third wrote: “I’m really sad that there is no Rickshaw Challenge this year. It was a highlight of Children in Need. I hope the BBC will bring it back next year. Well done to you and the whole team.”
Children in Need airs from 7pm on BBC One on Friday, November 17.
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