Children In Need breaks record

Gareth Gates joined Pudsey Bear to announce the total

The BBC's Children In Need appeal has raised a final total of £25m, the best since it was launched in 1980.

Pop Idol's Gareth Gates joined patrons from the BBC to announce the total at London's BT Tower.

Children in Need director Martina Milburn said: "The fact that the appeal total has increased by 25% this year is remarkable.

"We've had lots of help from people right across the BBC who have worked hard to promote the campaign to viewers and listeners and take part in fundraising activities themselves."

'People's charity

Terry Wogan launched the charity along with Esther Rantzen 22 years ago, raising £1m on the first night.

He said: "It's been great to watch it grow into a real people's charity."

BBC Breakfast presenter Jeremy Bowen and Madness frontman Suggs are the newest patrons.

Bowen said: "This total is an awesome effort."

Children in Need has already distributed £13.9m as grants to registered charities and community groups.