Helen Skelton's Red Nose Challenge

Helen Skelton's Red Nose Day challenge is heating up, as Blue Peter viewers were shown Helen in training to walk a 2 metre high wire for an audience of 600 at a circus.

This seemed like a tricky challenge considering Helen had previously practiced on a wire only a few centimetres from the crash mat. "I've never even been to a proper circus and now I'm going to be in one!" laughed Helen nervously.

Viewers saw Helen struggle to find her focus on the wire, seeking help with four intensive Pilate's courses to try and equip herself with the physical and mental tools necessary to balance on the wire. While this helped in practice sessions, on the night Helen's confidence was at rock bottom. The clapping audience and music proved too much of a distraction and she fell on her first attempts across the wire!

Remembering her Pilates training and re-gaining her focus Helen successfully made it all the way across - impressive after only 6 lessons on the high wire! "This is only the start; it's onwards and upwards from here!" remarked Helen.

Andy and Barney caught up with Helen on a break from her training in France, where she is tackling even greater heights in preparation for her 50 metre walk on Red Nose Day. The pair read her messages from Blue Peter viewers who were keen to share their Red Nose Day plans, and offered their support and encouragement.

The pair also invited viewers to send in ideas for music that will get Helen in a training mood. "I genuinely really appreciate this and will use your kind words. Good luck on your Red Nose day challenges too!" remarked Helen.

You can watch the full report for seven days on iPlayer here.

For a gallery of pictures, Helen's diary and for messages of support, go to her Blue Peter page.