MARYPORT GP Ross Anderson is the medic for the BBC One Show's Children in Need Rickshaw Challenge.

The One Show's Rickshaw Challenge is headed by one of the show's two presenters, Alex Jones and Matt Baker.

Dr Anderson, 39, of Maryport Health Services, has taken holidays to allow him to join the challenge which has teenagers who have accessed Children in Need projects cycling a rickshaw from Land's End to London.

The teenagers include those who are or have suffered debilitating illness such as arthritis or cancer, children who have physical or learning disabilities and one boy whose father died recently in a cycling accident.

Dr Anderson became involved as the team doctor because of his involvement in Across the Divide, an events group that organises different challenges for charity.

He said: "Everyone is enjoying this challenge although the weather has been terrible."

He said one of the toughest challenges included going trough the Cheddar Gorge.

"I haven't had a ride on the rickshaw although I have been cycling behind it - and have had to help push it up some of the steeper hills on occasion."

He said the teenagers taking part were remarkable and "doing fantastically well."

There had been no major problems.

"I've had to deal with a few small health issues but nothing really," he said.

Since the first challenge in 2011, the rickshaw rides have raised nearly £8million for Children in Need.

The challenge ends tonight when the riders and crew arrive in London. 

Their arrival will be broadcast as part of the BBC's Children in Need coverage.

To donate £5 to the Rickshaw Challenge, text "team" to 70705. To donate £10, text the work "team" to 70710.