BBC presenter Sara Cox's epic fundraising challenge for Children in Need has prompted calls for her to receive a damehood.
Sara completed her extraordinary 135-mile Great Northern Marathon Challenge on Friday (14th November), raising more than £9.5 million for BBC Children in Need.
And the feat has prompted a wave of public calls for her to be elevated to Dame status.
The 50-year-old spent five days running the equivalent of five marathons, beginning in Kielder Forest and travelling through Northumberland, Durham, North Yorkshire and West Yorkshire before reaching the finish line in Pudsey.
Her route included key stretches through the Harrogate district, passing crowds of supporters in Ripley, Beckwithshaw and surrounding villages, where residents braved wind and driving rain to cheer her on.
Speaking to Radio 2 colleague Scott Mills after completing the final miles in the aftermath of Storm Claudia, Sara said:
"It's just the hardest thing I've ever done, I've never known pain like it.
"But then I've never had eye contact with so many amazing woman who have just powered me on.
"On the side of the road, in the driving rain, it was bitterly cold. The truck drivers honking their horns, the farmers stopping work just to come and say hi.
"Thanks to everybody who let me stop for a wee at their house - it was a few people!"
Sara received messages of support ahead of her final push from the Prince of Wales and Sir Rod Stewart, giving her what she called a much-needed boost as she neared the finish.
She jokingly referred to herself as an “honorary Yorkshire woman” on completing the challenge and was visibly shocked when the total raised - £9,523,028 - was revealed live on air.
Viewers and listeners took to social media to praise the broadcaster, with many urging that she be honoured formally.
One message read:
“I am in awe - you are a legend.”
Another added:
“When is it going to be Dame Sara Cox?”
Donations to support Sara Cox’s challenge and BBC Children in Need remain open, with details available through the official Children in Need website here.
Harrogate Town Unveil New Home Kit for 2026/26 Season
Harrogate resident latest to scoop free tank of fuel
20-person brawl breaks out at Ripon pub
RAF flypast planned over Harrogate district next weekend
Three hotels in Harrogate district named among best in UK by Telegraph
Petition calls for action to protect Knaresborough Castle
Harrogate Car Enthusiasts Motor Show returns this weekend
Solar panels installed at Ripon Leisure Centre to help cut energy bills
Police make arrest after fight on Harrogate street
Harrogate IT business 'incredibly proud' to represent town at national awards
Harrogate school fair to showcase young musical talent
Harrogate care team conquers 45km charity walk
Increase in shoppers being duped by AI 'High Street' scams
Financial investigators brought in to examine council-owned house builder
Comedy legend to visit Harrogate as part of upcoming tour
Governors oppose battery storage site near Knaresborough primary school
Street rangers tackle benches and bird mess on Cambridge Street
Harrogate Cat Rescue issues update on kittens born with genetic condition
Harrogate MP launches campaign to save M&S café on Leeds Road
Paddling pool in Valley Gardens remains closed for maintenance
