Gethin Jones and Helen Skelton Take on 24-Hour Roller-Skating Challenge for Comic Relief
A Wheely Big Challenge for Red Nose Day BBC One’s Morning Live presenters, Gethin Jones and Helen Skelton, are set to don their retro roller boots for an epic endurance challenge in aid of Red Nose Day. The Wheely Big Challenge will see the duo take on a relentless 24-hour roller-skating feat, beginning on the morning of Thursday 20th March. Their mission? To inspire donations that will support Comic Relief-funded initiatives in the UK and across the world.
A Celebration of Comic Relief’s 40th Anniversary
As Comic Relief approaches its 40th anniversary in 2025, the challenge will be a nostalgic journey through the decades, with themed costumes and music from the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s. Gethin and Helen will skate through the day and night, testing their stamina, resilience, and balance while fighting fatigue—all in the name of raising vital funds.
Raising Funds for a Worthy Cause
The money raised from the challenge will go towards Comic Relief-funded projects, making a real difference by helping children to be happier, families stronger, women safer, communities prouder, and millions of lives fairer.
Famous Faces Join the Challenge
Throughout the 24-hour event, a host of celebrity guests—including past Comic Relief challengers, Morning Live co-presenters, and surprise stars—will join Gethin and Helen, offering encouragement and motivation to keep them on their skates. Expect fun, laughter, and plenty of throwback fashion as they celebrate four decades of Comic Relief.
When and Where to Watch
The challenge will kick off live on BBC Morning Live on Thursday 20th March and continue non-stop until the following morning, concluding during Morning Live on Red Nose Day, Friday 21st March.
Comic Relief’s Legacy of Giving Since its inception in 1985, Comic Relief has raised over £1.6 billion, thanks to the generosity of the public and its partners. Helen and Gethin, both seasoned Comic Relief challengers, are well aware of the life-changing impact these funds have had over the years.
Gethin’s Thoughts on the Challenge
Gethin admits he is stepping out of his comfort zone, saying: “I’ve never roller-skated before, so I’m nervous about just staying upright, let alone skating for 24 hours! But I’ll give it everything I’ve got because I’m determined to raise as much as possible.”
He adds: “I love Red Nose Day and everything Comic Relief does for people facing incredibly tough times in the UK and around the world. Every day on Morning Live, we hear how people are struggling, so this challenge feels more important than ever. And hopefully, we’ll have some fun along the way—at least for the first hour!”
Helen’s Excitement to Get Rolling Helen is looking forward to the challenge, saying: “I’m really excited to take this on. For me, it sums up what Comic Relief is all about—raising money for incredible causes while hopefully putting smiles on people’s faces.”
A Message from Comic Relief’s CEO Samir Patel, CEO of Comic Relief, expressed his gratitude, stating: “Each year, we’re amazed by the incredible efforts of our celebrity supporters, and this year is no exception. We are so thankful to Gethin, Helen, and the Morning Live team for taking on this remarkable challenge. At a time when donations are needed more than ever, we’re cheering them on every step of the way!”
How to Get Involved
Viewers can support Gethin and Helen’s Wheely Big Challenge by tuning in live on BBC iPlayer and cheering them on throughout their 24-hour skate. Donations can be made via text, online, or by scanning the on-screen QR code.
To follow their journey as they prepare for this epic event, visit www.comicrelief.com/skate for all the latest updates.
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