When staff from BBC Radio Cornwall took the plunge last week as part of a 1000 Mile Challenge for Children in Need, Pudsey joined leisure centre staff and customers in cheering them on.
GLL facilitated the daily swim at Helston Sports Centre, Saltash Leisure Centre and St Austell Leisure Centre – with a four-hour live breakfast programme broadcast from St Austell on the last day.
Each swimmer contributed to a cumulative total of 24 miles and Pudsey was there to lend his support and encourage donations.
“We’re always happy to help if we can and heartily congratulate the Radio Cornwall team on their impressive achievement,” said Amelia Kitchen, GLL Senior General Manager.
“Pudsey certainly enjoyed himself. We’ve just upgraded our gym equipment in all three centres, so he had a go on some of it himself.”
Regular early morning St Austell swimmer Pat told presenter James Churchfield she turned up every day at 6am to swim because it helped with her arthritis.
“Being active really makes a difference,” she said.
BBC producer Victoria Gould thanked everyone at the three GLL centres for their involvement.
“It’s been a total treat to witness the sense of community at all your pools and to learn more about how much they mean to those they serve,” she said.
“We have met some fabulous people and heard some brilliant and inspiring stories all whilst doing our bit for BBC Children in Need.
“I know the team really appreciated all your support and were particularly grateful for the warm welcomes they received each morning.
“The highlight was undoubtedly James presenting the last half an hour of this morning’s breakfast programme whilst in the water!”
To donate to the challenge, visit https://www.bbcchildreninneed.co.uk/shows/swim/
