BBC Children in Need Raises Over £39 Million

BBC Children in Need's annual fundraising event successfully raised over £39 million, surpassing last year's total of £33.5 million. The live show, hosted by a star-studded lineup including Graham Norton and Kylie Minogue, featured emotional stories and performances from artists like Ella Henderson and Rag’n’Bone Man. A significant portion of the funds came from TV presenter Paddy McGuinness, who raised approximately £8.8 million through a 300-mile cycling challenge from Wales to Scotland. The event also debuted a new charity single, a reimagined version of Girls Aloud's 'Stand By You,' featuring the late Sarah Harding. Gemma Walker from Family Fund highlighted the essential support provided by the Emergency Essentials Programme, which delivered crucial assistance to families in crisis. This year's donations reflect an urgent need for support, as many children continue to lack basic necessities.