BBC AND ITV BATTLE IT OUT IN CHILDREN IN NEED SPECIAL OF UNIVERSITY CHALLENGE

For one night only, the worlds of TV collide as stars from the BBC and ITV go head to head in this very special episode of University Challenge for BBC Children in Need.

Journalist and broadcaster, Kirsty Wark takes on the night’s hosting duties and is joined by a host of famous faces from the BBC and ITV, who will compete against each other in separate teams.

Comedian Dara Ó Briain heads Team BBC and is joined by celebrity guests Anita Rani, Dane Baptiste and Steve Pemberton and the opposing Team ITV is led by actress Fay Ripley and consists of celebrity guests Charlene White, Iain Stirling and Joel Dommett.

Kirsty Wark, host, says: “Hosting University Challenge was the best fun to be had while raising money to give every child who needs it some hope and some care.”

Dara Ó Briain, Team BBC Captain, says: “It's been a dream of mine to be humiliated on University Challenge and now, it's come true!”

Fay Ripley, Team ITV Captain, says: “To have the chance to take part in this University Challenge for BBC Children in Need Special and to be a Team Captain for ITV is an honour. BBC Children in Need is a renowned charity and University Challenge is a show I have watched and enjoyed for many years so this is a brilliant experience!”

Jo Wallace, Acting Controller of Entertainment Commissioning, says: “I'm so pleased that some of the most famous faces of BBC and ITV have come together for this brilliant cause, BBC Children in Need. I hope viewers will enjoy the comradery and competitive spirit of both sides for a special night of University Challenge whilst raising money for the charity.”