BBC’s Children in Need’s three hour long TV ‘SPOTacular’ ended with an announcement that £35,273,167 had been raised.
The money, which is slightly down on last year’s total of £39m, will go towards supporting children across the country through the cost of living crisis.
Simon Antrobus, chief executive of BBC CiN said: “Tonight will be an evening I will never forget, not least because of the overwhelming kindness and generosity shown at a time when things are incredibly hard for so many.
“We have laughed, we have cried and we have been thoroughly entertained, but above all, we have shown the UK’s children and young people that we are here for them.”
The 42nd annual show was hosted by Ade Adepitan MBE, Mel Giedroyc, Jason Manford, Chris Ramsey and Alex Scott MBE.
Comedian Jason Manford said it was “astounding” and thanked the public for their donations to “the millions” of children who face a “tough winter ahead”.
What were the highlights of the night?
Lewis Capaldi, Mimi Webb and Diversity were among the stars who performed and helped raise millions for this year’s appeal.
The new Doctor Who companion was announced as 18-year-old Coronation Street actress Millie Gibson.
The UK entry for the Junior Eurovision Song Contest, Freya Skye performed on stage live for the first time, with her song Lose My Head.
At half time, Eurovision runner-up Sam Ryder announced the first total as £15,424,340 and thanked the public for their “generosity” despite the current financial situation with the cost of Living crisis.
School children who’d helped to raise money were surprised by England footballer Mason Mount who gave them a tour around Wembley Stadium along with CiN mascot Pudsey Bear.
The show also saw the presentation of the seventh Sir Terry Wogan Fundraiser of the Year Award which was awarded to 81-year-old Aileen Kane from Glasgow, who has fundraised for CiN for 35 years.
Mr Antrobus said: “Too many children and young people across the UK are being impacted by the cost of living crisis, but the money raised this evening will, quite simply, change their lives and their futures.
“I would like to thank each and every person that gave so generously this evening, our supporters really should feel incredibly proud, I know I do. Thank you.”
You can find out everything you need to know about Children in Need here.
