Regular listeners of BBC Radio 2 will have noticed Vernon Kay wasn’t hosting his typical weekday broadcasting slot this morning and it’s all for a very good reason.

He took over Ken Bruce’s show back in May this year but now the 49-year-old presenter has set off on his latest mission.

Vernon began his Ultra Ultramarathon for the BBC Children in Need Appeal 2023 today (November 14) and will continue his running efforts for charity until Friday morning at around 9am (November 17).

Speaking about his mega challenge, Vernon said: "I was just settling into my new mid-morning routine and now this!

“Everyone who has previously undertaken a BBC Children in Need challenge has raised so much money for this brilliant charity, so the pressure is on, but I’m up for it.... so come on, let’s do this!"

Where is Vernon Kay today?

The I’m A Celeb star set off on his Ultra Ultramarathon from Leicester's Victoria Park and he will finish at none other than Bolton Wanderers' football stadium in his hometown.

BBC Radio 2 said: “During the challenge, Radio 2 presenters will be hosting their regular shows, offering Vernon lots of support and keeping him motivated and spurred on with your messages.

“Vernon will also be presenting his own weekday morning show live whilst undertaking the challenge, joined on his journey by a variety of special guests to keep him going.”

What is the distance of an ultramarathon?

The distance of an ultramarathon is a race that is longer than the marathon distance of 26.2 miles (42.1k), according to Runner’s World.

The running experts add: “But ultramarathons do vary in distance – ranging from a single-day 50k (31 miles) event to a multi-stage race across hundreds of miles.

“Unlike road marathons, which are usually run on paved surfaces, ultra-marathons often involve more challenging terrain (from mountains to deserts) and are designed to test both your endurance and mental toughness.”

Although it’s safe to say Vernon won’t be heading to any deserts over the next few days, Vernon will be running a total of 115 miles, hence its name of an ‘Ultra Ultramarathon’.

You can follow all the action on BBC Radio 2, BBC Sounds and via the radio’s social channels.