Isabella Silvers
BBC’s annual Children in Need is always a night to remember, and this Friday 16th November is no exception. The seven hour telethon brings together the best in music, television and celebrity to raise money for some fantastic youth causes in the UK.
Hosted by the legendary Sir Terry Wogan, accompanied by Fearne Cotton, Tess Daly and Nick Grimshaw, Children In Need 2012 will feature musical performances from Kylie Minogue, Susan Boyle, The Script, Paloma Faith and X Factor alumni Little Mix, Leona Lewis and One Direction.
What’s more, after months of speculation, it was finally confirmed that Girls Aloud will be reuniting for an exclusive live performance of their comeback single, ‘Something New’, which is also the official BBC Children in Need single 2012. The track is available to pre-order now, and will be released on Sunday.
Viewers can also look forward to the BBC Newsreaders in Top Gear’s ‘star in a reasonably priced car’, a Doctor Who Christmas special prequel, including the first glimpse of the Doctor’s new companion, and a Call The Midwife Christmas special preview.
And on the dancefloor? Ann Widdecombe and Russell Grant will be strutting their stuff with their former Strictly Come Dancing partners, as well as numerous British Olympic and Paralympic athletes, including Tom Daley, Ellie Simmonds and Rebecca Adlington in their own version of Basement Jaxx’s ‘Do Your Thing’ music video. Equestrian stars Zara Phillips, Nicola Wilson and Tina Cook meanwhile will be getting down ‘Gangnam Style’.
Viewers can also see Britain’s Got Talent 2012 winner, Pudsey the dog, meet his namesake for an exclusive performance. Luckily, Children in Need mascot Pudsey the bear can be sure he’ll be looking his best after being treated to not one, but over 30 high-fashion makeovers.
Restyled by Alexander McQueen in soft pink fur with gold ears and nose, by Burberry in quilted brown leather with a signature trench coat and by Victoria Beckham in a pretty pink dress and red lipstick, amongst others, each unique 28 inch Pudsey bear will be auctioned to support Children in Need. The collection, of over 30 new designs, was curated by Katie Grand, editor of Love magazine, inspired by the success of last year’s collection. Speaking to the BBC, Grand comments; “I was honoured to curate this fantastic collection, and have had such fun working with the designers on all of their amazing designs, BBC Children in Need is an incredibly worthwhile cause, and one which myself and all of the designers involved in the collection are privileged to support.”
While it may be all entertainment in the studio, Children In Need promotes a serious message. Robbie Williams, Fearne Cotton and Tom Daley, among others, will highlight some of the work Children in Need are committed to in changing the lives of children in the UK in moving short films.
It is important to remember that it’s not all fun, games and teddy bears; Children in Need is devoted to ensuring every child in the UK has a safe, happy and healthy childhood, something we may take for granted. While the music and entertainment may not necessarily be your cup of tea, there is no denying that Children in Need, now in its thirty-second year, is certainly a worthwhile cause.
Up against a 2011 broadcast donation total of £26,332,334, Terry Wogan hopes “the extraordinary generosity of the British people” can this year bring about another record-breaking total. Why not check out events in your local area, buy some official merchandise or just donate? Every penny counts.
Get involved; visit www.bbc.co.uk/childreninneed.
