'We're not women of a certain age. We're not hiding anymore' - Sara Cox's ultra marathon challenge is 'inspiring a generation of women'

After five gruelling days of running, jogging and walking, Sara Cox has completed her Great Northern Marathon Challenge. And as well as raising an impressive £7.6 million for BBC Children In Need, her epic journey has also inspired her and other women in different ways, too.

"It was a really silly idea, such a ridiculous thing to do. That was crazy!" Sara said when she'd crossed the finish line and sat down to talk with Scott Mills.

"I've never had shapely calves in my life" she added. "But I have now because they are so swollen, it looks like I've been hit with a bat.

"It's just been the maddest, most painful, wonderful thing I've ever, ever done."

Last night (13 November), as she reached the finish line on the fourth day of her five-day marathon challenge, she announced that the experience has challenged the view some people hold about “women of a certain age” not being able to do certain activities or having to hide from the spotlight.

“The whole ‘woman of a certain age' thing, we’re not having it! Are we women?” she said, prompting the crowd who had gathered to welcome her across the finish line into loud cheers.

"We’re not ‘gals.’ We’re not ‘women of a certain age.’ We’re not hiding anymore. We’re over 50 and we’re having it! Aren’t we women? All the men are looking confused.”

In the comments of the video posted to BBC Radio Two’s Instagram page, Sara’s fans couldn’t have resonated with her message more. “Yes Sara, women over 50 are Bloomin awesome and we can do it,” one person wrote. While another said, “Sara - you’re inspiring a generation (or two) of women. Thank you!! If you can, we can!”

Since starting on Monday, the challenge has seen Sara run, jog and walk 135-miles to the Yorkshire town of Pudsey, from her starting point in Kielder Forest on the Scottish borders.

To help spur her on through the wind and rain of Storm Claudia on her final day, she recieved messages of support from fellow BBC DJs and even Prince William.

In his message of support, Prince William said, “Sara, massive congratulations for what you are doing. You are so nearly there, just a little bit further. I know the people of Pudsey will all come out and welcome you with huge open arms, big hugs…and hopefully, lots of your favourite crumpets.

“Keep going. You’ve done fantastically well, and the nation is so proud of you.”

At 3.30pm on 14 November, Sara reached the finish line in Yorkshire, where she was met by a crowd of well wishers.

There's still time to donate to her cause through the official page on BBC Children In Need.