Stagecoach celebrates 10 years of the Children in Need 'Pudsey' bus

Stagecoach South is proud to celebrate a decade of colour, community and care with the much-loved Children in Need ‘Pudsey’ Bus, marking 10 years of support for BBC Children in Need.

For the past decade, the distinctive bright yellow bus, adorned with Pudsey’s signature spots, has become a familiar and heart-warming sight across Portsmouth and Southsea. The special service has raised both smiles and vital funds for children’s charities throughout the region.

At the heart of the initiative is Stagecoach’s own Rachael Street, who has led the Pudsey Bus project since its very first journey. Rachael was featured on BBC Radio Solent, sharing her experiences of the campaign’s impact and the joy it brings to passengers every year. As part of the BBC’s 1,000 Mile Challenge, Rachael joined presenter Katie Martin in a light-hearted leg-tied trek from Southsea Terminal to the Spinnaker Tower at Gunwharf Quays, all in the spirit of fundraising fun.

“We were thrilled to meet Rachael and discover more about the Pudsey bus. Thank you to all the passengers who have supported BBC Children in Need, you’re amazing!”

This year’s Pudsey Bus officially hits the road on 10 November, travelling throughout Portsmouth and Southsea to raise awareness and donations for BBC Children in Need. Even Pudsey Bear himself stopped by to take the wheel and show his support!

Rachael, along with colleague Graeme Clarke, will be putting the finishing touches on the bus ahead of this year’s fundraising launch, ensuring it’s ready to bring a little extra joy to the streets once again.

Katie Martin, Presenter at BBC Radio Solent, said: “The Pudsey Bus means so much to our community and to everyone here at Stagecoach,” said Rachael Street, Stagecoach South. “It’s been incredible to see how something as simple as a bus can bring people together for such an important cause.”

Passengers can spot the Pudsey Bus around Portsmouth and Southsea throughout November and are encouraged to donate to BBC Children in Need to help support projects that change young lives across the UK.

Passengers will also have the chance to take part in an exciting on-board raffle, so keep an eye out when the Pudsey Bus comes your way!