19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Paddy McGuinness in incredible gesture to school threatened with closure
Paddy McGuinness surprised kids at a school under threat of closure who helped support him on his epic Children in Need challenge - leaving them delighted
TV star Paddy McGuinness surprised schoolchildren as a thank you for their support during his massive Children in Need challenge.
The TV star captivated the nation last November with his Raleigh Chopper cycling heroics. At the time, he was buoyed by the support of kids from St Anthony's Catholic Primary School in Saltney, in Wales.
And he went back - with his Chopper - to say thank you last Friday morning. Paddy's visit to the school comes as the school is threatened with closure.
Flintshire County Council want to open a super-school 14 miles away for children aged 3-18 - a move which has upset the children, staff and community.
He has previously recorded a video message backing the school to stay open. Paddy said: "When I did my Children in Need challenge, I remember coming up to your school and feeling really tired, my bum was sore off the bike seat.
"When I came up to your school you all came out and drew me amazing pictures, and offered me loads of support, and cheered me on. It really helped me to get to the end of my challenge, so thank you very much.
"And here's something in return, I'm sending you all my love and support - let's keep your fantastic school open."
On Friday's visit to the school, Paddy thanked the kids for spurring him onto the finish line.
A source added: 'His visit meant the world to our children, especially given the challenges our school community is currently navigating. Seeing their smiles and hearing their laughter as they interacted with Paddy, and received the generous donation of toys he brought, was truly heartwarming.'
The comedian's Children In Need challenge raised more than £10 million. The 300-mile bike ride, began in Wrexham, Wales, last month and crossed the finish line in Glasgow.
