STV’s Children’s Appeal raised more than £2m for good causes on a night of surprises in Glasgow.
F1 star Max Verstappen stunned a nine-year-old superfan with a message of support as he continues his recovery from cancer, while Scotland captain Andy Robertson, presenter Jean Johansson and actor Robert Carlyle popped up to lend their voices to the fight against child poverty.
The event – now in its 12th year – aims to help children and families affected by poverty across Scotland by funding projects that provide essential support.
Presented by Lorraine Kelly alongside STV’s Sean Batty, the programme, broadcast from charity Refuweegee’s headquarters in Glasgow featured vignettes and features from across the country, tracking the appeal’s fundraising efforts and impacts.
Sean and fellow presenter Laura Boyd were tasked with making their way around the Isle of Arran and back on time for the last ferry home by any means necessary – encountering alpacas, horses and a bagpiper along the way.
Their two-day escapade concluded with an epic abseil to reach their connection back to the mainland, while other partners raised thousands through fundraising efforts including the Kiltwalk, golf days, running and cycling among a host of other activities.
But there was also a window into how the appeal can help people like nine-year-old Formula One obsessive Harry.
He was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2019, but is now in remission thank to the help of charity It’s Good 2 Give, which is supported by the appeal.
Three-time world champion Verstappen popped up with a message of support, telling the youngster: “I’ve heard your story and also how hard you and your sister have worked to raise money for the charity that helped you. I think you’re amazing.”
A total of of £2,224,145 was raised during the 2023 appeal.
The final total also includes £1m of match-funding from the Scottish Government, which has supported the Appeal since 2011.
Presenter Lorraine Kelly thanked the people of Scotland for their support.
“Every year, I know that the people of Scotland will go above and beyond and 2023 was no different. What an incredible total raised to help those across the country who need it most,” Lorraine said.
“A huge thank you to everyone who watched the show and donated last night – this money will have a life-changing impact.”
Paul Reynolds, chairman of the appeal, said: “As we come to the end of another fundraising year, it’s a pleasure to celebrate the efforts of so many brilliant fundraisers and charities through the STV Children’s Appeal Show, and reflect back on everything that has been achieved.
“Thanks to the unwavering generosity of our viewers, community fundraisers, corporate partners, STV colleagues and the people across Scotland, we have raised another huge amount of money for children and families affected by poverty. A big thank you to everyone who fundraised and donated to the Appeal this year; none of what we do would be possible without your continued support.”
You can donate to the STV Children’s Appeal 2023 by visiting stv.tv/appeal. Watch the show on STV Player.
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