WIRRAL driving instructor Diana Todd will drive the lead car in this year's 'Big Learner Relay for Children in Need' across the borough on Saturday.

This event, now in its ninth year, features driving instructors and pupils across the country all getting together to raise money for a great cause, over 12 days, 3000+ miles, more than 170 lead driving lessons and many thousands of instructors and pupils joining the convoy.

The Wirral leg, on Saturday (November 12), is part of a national two-week relay, organised by Hampshire-based driving instructor Louise Walsh, who will complete the full journey, along with a Pudsey top box, which will sit on top of each lead car along the way.

Wirral Globe:

On the last day of the relay - which falls on BBC Children in Need appeals day, Friday November 18 - they will relay into a grand finale to complete a lap of the fabulous Goodwood Race Circuit.

Diana, who runs Moreton-based Todd’s Driver Training, said: "The route that I’m responsible for leading several Wirral and beyond instructors on is from Rock Retail Park to Hilton Double Tree Chester.

"From there, Louise and the Pudsey roof sign will be handed over to Nia Hunt to continue the journey onwards to ASDA in Wrexham.

"Louise, the mastermind of the relay, will continue until they reach Goodwood, to complete a lap.

"Anyone involved in the relay is welcome to do the lap at Goodwood and it is an excellent opportunity for learners and instructors alike, to not only have a unique life experience but to raise money for Children in Need."

Wirral Globe:

Diana’s car is decorated with dozens of spots - anyone who donates to Children in Need as part of the relay can have their name added to a spot.

Around the country, pupils, businesses, and the general public are donating money to sign a coloured spot on the instructors’ cars.

Diana said: "There are several ways to donate you can donate online.

"Let me know that you have and I will pop a message on one of the spots for you or if you are local, you can do yourself."

Diana, who will be joined by husband Stuart and their seven-year-old daughter Sophia in the relay, said: "It's a real family effort and we are all very excited".

Louise Walsh commented: "I am so looking forward to meeting the hundreds of participating instructors, taking photos, cheering the convoy on, updating the live feeds, communicating with the media and wearing my Big Learner Relay hoodie with pride as we travel around the country.

"This year is even more special as the relay was unable to take place due to the pandemic.

"We still did our fundraising and brought our community together online but seeing our Big Learner Relay friends face to face is going to be very special.”

For more information on how to get involved visit www.biglearnerrelay.co.uk or you can text "Pass" plus your donation to 70085