Greg James kicks off epic Sport Relief challenge just as 'Beast from the East' weather bites

Greg James is a very brave man. The Radio 1 DJ has just started his Pedal to the Peaks Sport Relief challenge, which will see him climb the UK’s three highest mountains and cycle between them – just as a Siberian blast of cold weather hits the UK.

https://twitter.com/gregjames/status/967837179824222209

It’s very cold: this morning the Gregathlon started in -1°C at the bottom of Mount Snowdon, Wales, this morning – with freezing winds making the weather feel an extra five degrees colder, according to the Met Office.

https://twitter.com/sportrelief/status/968047380170932224

https://twitter.com/gpwhyte/status/968076431275241472

Climbing the mountain in is only the first part of James’s journey. After hitting the peak (where wind chill temperatures will hit an unbelievable -17C° by midday), he’ll then have to cycle his way to Scafell Pike in Cumbria, before finally taking on the mighty Ben Nevis (which, adding in wind chill, feels like -16°C at the moment).

Overall, it’s a challenge that will see James cycle 500 miles in five days, all in aid of Sport Relief's campaign to help vulnerable people live healthier and happier lives.

Fortunately, James has been sent some supportive messaging to help him through…

https://twitter.com/gregjames/status/967752378471591937

https://twitter.com/gregjames/status/967717634010644480

However, chances are he might need a bit more encouraging. You can donate to the Greg James Sport Relief campaign here.

https://twitter.com/sportrelief/status/968038495645249537