Paddy McGuinness on first day of ultra cycling challenge aboard Raleigh chopper: 'The first 30 miles were just crazy'

TV presenter Paddy McGuinness has described the first day of his ultra cycling challenge aboard a Raleigh chopper as "just crazy".

The comedian and presenter is cycling 1,400 miles from London to Edinburgh in just eight days to raise money for BBC Children in Need.

McGuinness, 49, set off from the BBC studios in London on Monday morning and cycled 120 miles to York, on his custom-made chopper.

The bike, with its distinctive banana seat and high handlebars, is not the most conventional choice for such a long-distance challenge.

"The first 30 miles were just crazy," McGuinness told the PA news agency.

"I couldn't get used to the bike, I kept falling off. But after that, I started to get the hang of it and I'm feeling good now."

McGuinness is being joined on the challenge by a team of friends and family, including his wife Christine and their three children.

The team is hoping to raise £1 million for BBC Children in Need, which supports disadvantaged children and young people in the UK.

McGuinness said he was inspired to take on the challenge after meeting some of the children who are supported by the charity.

"I was so moved by their stories," he said. "I knew I had to do something to help."

The team is cycling through some of the UK's most challenging terrain, including the Yorkshire Dales and the Scottish Highlands.

McGuinness admitted that he was feeling apprehensive about the challenge, but said he was determined to complete it.

"I'm not a natural cyclist, but I'm going to give it my all," he said. "I know it's going to be tough, but I'm up for the challenge."

McGuinness is urging people to donate to BBC Children in Need to support his challenge.

To donate, visit: bbc.co.uk/pudsey