The 50-year-old completed five marathons in five days as part of her gruelling Great Northern Marathon Challenge, ending in Pudsey – the name of Children in Need’s bear mascot.
Revealing the grand total, Sara told Radio 2 listeners: “You are legends.
Melanie C was among those who greeted Sara Cox in Pudsey
“Every fiver, tenner, every 20, every 30.
“Whether you gave a couple of quid on the side of the road; the kids that gave their money that they got from the tooth fairy.
“Every penny goes to helping children and young people in the UK – and you are absolutely incredible.
“If it’s safe to do so, you are not operating heavy machinery, holding a small child or nursing a large whiskey, give yourselves a pat on the back.
“That is beautiful.
“11 and a half million pounds.
“We did it together – thank you!”
Sara when she set off on the challenge (Image: Children in Need)
A BBC TV crew followed Sara’s journey every step of the way for a behind-the-scenes film, Sara Cox: Every Step of the Way for Children In Need, which is now available on BBC iPlayer.
Throughout her journey, Sara received hundreds of messages of support – including plenty from folk in West Yorkshire.
Earlier this week, rapper and singer Stormzy sent Sara a message celebrating her triumphant 135-mile Great Northern Marathon Challenge.
He said: “Just wanted to say a big congratulations to you for completing five marathons in five days, which is just insane.
“And it is five more marathons than I’ve done in my life so again, massive congrats, and salute to you for raising all that money for such a beautiful, wonderful cause.
Sarah with her Pudsey bear backpack (Image: Children in Need)
“We’re all very proud of you.”
Prince William shared a heart-warming video message to motivate Sara as she embarked on the final day.
He said: “Sara, massive congratulations.
“You’ve done fantastically well – and the nation is so proud of you.”
After crossing the finish line in Pudsey, having started in Kielder Forest, Northumberland, Sarah said: “I can’t believe it, oh my gosh.
“That was the hardest thing I’ve ever done.
“Oh my gosh, I can’t believe it, I can’t believe it, hello Yorkshire.
“I’m an honorary Yorkshire woman now.”
She was greeted by a performance from former Spice Girl Melanie C in Pudsey.