Children in Need passes £15m mark (From Burnley and Pendle Citizen)

Children in Need passes £15m mark

11:27pm Friday 20th November 2009

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BBC newsreaders have turned "bootylicious" as they braved a Beyonce dance routine for Children in Need.

Kate Silverton, Susanna Reid, Sophie Raworth and Fiona Bruce swapped pinstriped suits for bling as they performed the American diva's hits Crazy In Love and Single Ladies.

Silverton said later: "It was so out of our comfort zone, but it was worth it."

It appeared their risque performance had helped boost charity coffers - by 10.30pm fundraising had past the £15 million mark.

Adrian Chiles served up an early highlight as he joined fellow presenters from The One Show for a gaudy rendition of Fame. Another unlikely sight was the Dragons' Den team donning hard hats and overalls to help renovate a Children in Need community centre in London.

The cast of Doctor Who, Strictly Come Dancing and EastEnders were also involved as the spectacular party for the long-running annual charity event, hosted by Sir Terry Wogan, began.

Peter Kay had got the evening under way with his charity single, which saw the comedian perform with a host of familiar children's TV characters. Under the name The Animated All Star Band, the track features more than 100 characters from shows down the ages.

An edition of Lark Rise to Candleford saw Sir Terry make a guest appearance at the village Post Office.

Organisers were hoping to emulate the success of last year's seven-hour marathon, which raised more than £21 million on the night, with the 2008 total eventually topping £38 million.

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