Search for nation's favourite music

Wogan chose Clifford T Ward as his favourite

Presenter Terry Wogan has launched a search to find the UK's favourite piece of music to mark the Queen's Golden Jubilee.

BBC Radio 2 is asking listeners to trawl their musical memories to choose their favourite from the past 50 years.

The station will compile a list of classic tunes by British artists which will be counted down over the Jubilee weekend in June.

Wogan said: "This is just a part of Radio 2's contribution to the Jubilee celebrations - but an important part because it involves the public and their choice of the music that means most to them."

The veteran BBC broadcaster opted for the late Clifford T Ward's Home Thoughts From Abroad as his own favourite.

Celebrity favourites

Ann Widdecombe: Cliff Richard - Millennium Prayer

Dale Winton: Dusty Springfield - All I See Is You

Jonathan Ross: Sex Pistols - Pretty Vacant

Pete Waterman: The Beatles - She Loves You

Charles Kennedy MP: The Beatles - Let it Be

Tessa Jowell MP: John Lennon - Imagine

"He was a fine and prolific British songwriter and singer and much underrated," the Irish DJ said.

Radio Five Live's Simon Mayo will host the countdown, Best of British: 50 Golden Years of British Popular Music, on 1 June.

His own choice was Nick Drake's Northern Sky, which he described as "one of the most beautiful, poignant, ethereal songs ever".

"He died in 1972 but his songs are still a great influence on singers today," he added.

Votes can be cast by calling 08700 100 200; by accessing the Radio 2 website at bbc.co.uk/radio2; or by writing to Best of British, BBC Radio 2, London W1A 1AA.