Comic Relief: Day of fun brings funds rolling in.

Host of celebrities help to support charity in fundraising bonanza

After a week overshadowed by tragedy, laughter returned to the nation yesterday as people around the country took part in events for Comic Relief.

Leading the fundraising charge, as always, was comedian Lenny Henry, who paid tribute to those affected by the attack on Westminster as Red Nose Day’s evening of fundraising got under way.

One of the founders of the event, he was joined by Jonathan Ross as he told viewers: “We want to send our thoughts and love to all those affected by the events in Westminster.

“Tonight is an opportunity to save lives, to reach out in the spirit of partnership and compassion.”

The fundraising bonanza was supported by a night of entertainment and tears on BBC1, featuring some of the country’s biggest stars.

James Corden teamed up with Take That for a UK-take on Carpool Karaoke, the smash-hit segment from the Londoner’s US talk show.

Meanwhile, viewers witnessed singer Ed Sheeran breaking down in tears while filming a charity video in Africa.

The singer spoke to a young girl who lost her father during the ebola crisis, leaving her with no one to care for her.

The chart sensation later performed new track What Do I Know? live on stage, but appeared to forget his lines, covering his mistake by kissing comedian Greg Davies.

The total raised last night at time of going to press had passed £48 million.

Clockwise from top left: at the Teddy Bear Club Nursery in Dundee are, from left, Ruby Stewart, Mollie Campbell, Quinn Winter, Abbie Craig, Sophia Ritchie, Matthew Thomas, Noah Francis and Maia Szwejkowska; events at Perth High School have raised...