BBC Children In Need has kicked off the 41st year of its annual fundraising show with a vibrant performance from Ed Sheeran.
The chart-topping singer took to the stage with his latest hit single Overpass Graffiti.
The show began with the children charity’s mascot Pudsey arriving at the studio in James Bond style, as he pulled up in a speedboat to the 007 theme tune.
The yellow bear was greeted by famous faces along the way, including news presenter Naga Munchetty, Welsh weatherman Owain Wyn Evans and England football star Harry Maguire.
Simply amazing. @EdSheeran at #ChildreninNeed 🤩
Watch Ed's full performance of 'Overpass Graffiti on @BBCiPlayer 📺
And if you enjoyed it, please give what you can. Together we can continue to make a difference⤵️https://t.co/2juQDENBa0Advertisement— BBC Children in Need (@BBCCiN) November 19, 2021
The event is being hosted by a string of famous faces including Graham Norton, Mel Giedroyc, Alex Scott, Chris Ramsey and Ade Adepitan.
For the first time in 41 years, the show is being broadcast from Salford, Greater Manchester in England, and has the theme – Together We Can.
The first segment of the show saw Olympic and Paralympic athletes compete against one another in school sports day challenges including the sack race and egg and spoon race.
Love it, love it, love it @NiallOfficial @AnneMarie 🤩
Buy & stream our official charity single 'Everywhere' on @AppleMusic from midnight➡️ https://t.co/hJ4MwX91Bt
Watch #ChildreninNeed live ➡️ @BBC One | @BBCiPlayerAdvertisement— BBC Children in Need (@BBCCiN) November 19, 2021
The stars – who included diver Matty Lee, cyclist and swimmer Sarah Storey and gymnast Max Whitlock – were coached by broadcaster Clare Balding who acted as head of PE.
A music video by pop stars Niall Horan and Anne-Marie was then played as they covered Fleetwood Mac’s classic track Everywhere – which is Children In Need’s official single this year.
