MALVERN residents came out in their hundreds to welcome the BBC One Show's Rickshaw Challenge to town on Tuesday night.

A chilly autumn evening did not deter crowds from flocking to the top of Church Street, where the junction with Abbey Road was cordoned off and filled with TV technicians getting ready for the live transmission.

Six young people, all of whom have been supported by BBC Children in Need-funded projects, are taking part in the eight-day Rickshaw Challenge, which started on Friday in Calais.

Tuesday's stage started at Royal Wootton Bassett in Wiltshire, and the six participants pedalled 56 miles to reach Malvern.

Before the riders arrived, Children in Need mascot Pudsey Bear entertained the crowds to the delight of young children who shouted out his name, while owners of Morgan sports cars turned out to make the occasion special.

The rickshaw riders were given a heroes' welcome by spectators, who cheered them loudly as they were interviewed by One Show presenter Matt Baker and told the stories of how they overcame their problems.

Matt Baker said: “It was amazing arriving in Malvern. Myself and Team Rickshaw would like to extend a huge thanks to the local people for coming out and cheering us on. This challenge runs on generosity and it really does make all the difference and spurs us on to keep pedalling.”

The following morning, the challenge set out for its next stop, Blists Hill near Ironbridge, on its way to its ultimate destination at Salford on Friday.

As part of the Rickshaw Challenge, staff from Malvern Hills and Wychavon District Councils took to their bicycles to raise up to £200 for Children in Need.

Cllr David Chambers, leader of Malvern Hills District Council, said: “This is a great way to show our support to a wonderful charity that helps so many.”