The Big Learner Relay for Children In Need reaches its conclusion today (Friday 18th November).

Today it will be running from Gatwick through to the grand finale at Goodwood near Chichester in West Sussex.  Here, all the cars present will be doing a lap of honour of the famous motor racing circuit, which is also a WWII airfield and home to the Festival of Speed and Goodwood Revival motor shows.

Behind the wheel

Hampshire driving instructor Louise Walsh is the inspiration behind ‘The Big Learner Relay”, now an annual event that is in its ninth year. Over that time it has raised more than £500,00.

Driving Instructors relay a Pudsey top box from one driving lesson to another around the country over two weeks.

This, the last day of the relay,  falls on BBC Children in Need appeals day .

12 days, 3000+ miles, over 170 lead driving lessons and many thousands of instructors and pupils have joined the convoy! After months of planning, the route has covered in the region of 3,000 miles.

On your marks

Preparation began in June, with instructors coming up with ways to raise funds in whichever way works for them, their pupils and their businesses. Some are getting together as groups, some with associations, others with local business and community groups, or others just doing things within their franchises or on their own. Ideas include sponsored lessons, fancy dress lessons, PJs for Pudsey and car washes.

But by far the biggest fundraiser is ‘sponsor a spot’. Pupils, businesses, and the general public are donating money to sign a coloured spot on the instructors’ cars.

The lead cars demonstrate the diversity in this profession; independent schools, franchises both national and local, Instructor trainers, instructors teaching in diesel, petrol and electric cars and instructors who specialise in teaching people with disabilities.  Instructors in every part have been involved in preparations, participation and sharing the lead with the top box Lead car.

Get set and GO!

If you didn’t manage to get involved this years, why not donate now, represent your industry’s involvement with Children In Need, helping children and families.

Donate: https://blr.mydrivetime.co.uk/

Find out more here:

Congratulations Lou and everyone involved and who has donated.