Hundreds line the streets as Paddy McGuinness passes through Cumbria in epic ride

TV star Paddy McGuinness has completed an epic bike ride through Cumbria, raising thousands of pounds for charity.

The Top Gear presenter cycled more than 100 miles from Whitehaven to Carlisle, passing through some of the county’s most stunning scenery.

Hundreds of people lined the streets to cheer on McGuinness and his fellow riders, who were raising money for the BBC Children in Need appeal.

McGuinness said he was “overwhelmed” by the support he had received during the ride.

“It was an amazing experience, and I’m so grateful to everyone who came out to support us,” he said.

“The money we raised will make a real difference to the lives of disadvantaged children across the UK.”

The ride was part of McGuinness’s “Epic Ride to the Arctic” challenge, which will see him cycle from John o’ Groats to the Arctic Circle in Norway.

He is hoping to raise £1 million for BBC Children in Need during the challenge.

McGuinness is no stranger to cycling challenges. In 2019, he cycled from London to Paris in just 24 hours.

He has also cycled across the Sahara Desert and the Himalayas.

McGuinness’s latest challenge is his most ambitious yet.

He will be cycling more than 2,000 miles in just 10 days.

The challenge will be a major test of endurance, but McGuinness is confident that he can complete it.

“I’m feeling really good about the challenge,” he said.

“I’ve been training hard, and I’m confident that I can do it.”

McGuinness’s challenge is being supported by a team of cyclists, including his wife Christine and his friend and fellow Top Gear presenter Freddie Flintoff.

The team will be cycling alongside McGuinness for the entire challenge.

McGuinness is hoping that his challenge will inspire others to get involved in cycling.

“Cycling is a great way to keep fit and healthy,” he said.

“I hope that my challenge will encourage more people to get on their bikes.”