An East Lancashire quiz master who has become a firm favourite on Zoe Ball's BBC Radio 2 breakfast show is running the London Marathon this weekend ahead of releasing a new book.
Jay Flynn, who lives in Darwen, became an overnight sensation during lockdown when his virtual pub quiz went viral, after he mistakenly set a Facebook event to public instead of private.
And now, Jay, who was awarded an MBE by the Queen this year, is set to run the London Marathon in aid of homeless charity, The Connection at St Martin-in-the-Fields.
Ten years ago Jay found himself sleeping rough on the streets of London, but it was through the help of The Connection that he managed to turn his life around.
On Sunday he returns to those same streets, running to raise even money for the charity that helped him out of homelessness.
Jay said: "Connection at St Martins is a charity so close to my heart and without them I wouldn't be in the position I am today.
"I am indebted to their support.
"The Connection at St Martin’s helps thousands of people every year to move away from, and stay off, the streets of London.
"They do this by tackling the underlying causes of rough sleeping as well as offering practical help.
"During the Covid-19 pandemic, they have been helping to secure hotel and other suitable accommodation for rough sleepers, helping them self-isolate, stay safe and well.
"Funds raised from The Virtual Pub Quiz will help the charity to continue its life-saving work providing meals, essential supplies and virtual support for those that need extra help at this time."
Over the last year, Jay has rocketed to fame, receiving a Points of Light award from Prime Minister Boris Johnson; winning a Guinness World Records title for most viewers of a quiz on a YouTube live stream; has a regular slot on The Zoe Ball Breakfast Show on BBC Radio 2, and has raised more than £1,000,000 for charity, for which he was awarded his MBE.
Published by Mirror Books, Jay's second book, Jay's Virtual Pub Quiz Book 2, a follow-up to his best-selling first quiz book, is out on November 9.
The brand-new book is bigger and better than before – ideal for family, friends and colleagues, and contains everything you need to be the best quizmaster.
There are more than 30 set quizzes centred around everything from general knowledge, science and nature, sports, history and even some specialist Harry Potter and Marvel Movies questions.
To sponsor Jay for the London Marathon, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/virtualpubquizcstm
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