BBC weatherman Owain Wyn Evans was left speechless after learning his 24-hour ‘drumathon’ has raised more than £3million for Children In Need.
On Friday, the BBC Breakfast broadcaster from Wales began the grueling challenge by drumming throughout the night. He concluded the fundraising event early Saturday morning.
This fundraiser featured special performances by the Royal Marine Drumming Band and BBC Philharmonic members. It was live streamed on BBC iPlayer.
BBC weatherman Owain Wyn Evans was left speechless after learning his 24-hour ‘drumathon’ has raised more than £3million for Children In Need
On Friday, the BBC Breakfast broadcaster from Wales began the grueling challenge by drumming throughout the night and day. He then concluded the fundraising event early Saturday morning
On BBC Breakfast today, Owain was emotional as he learned he has raised more than £3million so far. The current fundraising total is shown in the picture
On BBC Breakfast today, Owain was emotional as he learned he has raised more than £3million so far.
After initially covering his face in shock, he stated, “That’s too many fivers. That’s so much people texting in, going on the site and giving their best,”
It’s going change lives. Many lives will be changed across the UK by this initiative. Everyone across the UK, thank you. There are many children and teenagers who can benefit no matter where they are.
Evans is a presenter for BBC North West Tonight, BBC Radio 2 & BBC Breakfast. He first rose to prominence after his video in which he was seen dancing to the theme tune of BBC Radio 2 went viral.
The weatherman, a gay young man from Ammanford in Wales, explained why drumming is a way to release stress and how it was an escape for him.
The weatherman spoke out ahead of the challenge to explain how drumming helped him feel free as a gay young man in Ammanford (Wales). Image from BBC Breakfast Today
Although the weatherman presented throughout the event and continued drumming, he briefly stopped for breaks to take care of injuries from his persistent drumming. Evans, BBC Breakfast Today
He returned home to speak with his parents and visit Mess Up The Mess, the BBC Children In Need youth theatre and LGBTQIA safe place.
During the challenge, he was joined by famous drummers including McFly’s Harry Judd, Pulp’s Nick Banks, Cherisse Osei from Simple Minds, Steve White from Style Council, Frank Benbini of Fun Lovin’ Criminals and percussionist Dame Evelyn Glennie.
Participation was also given by Al Murray (comedian), John Thomson (actor), and amateur drummers, enthusiasts and musicians aged eight-83.
Evans was also joined by many celebrity guests during the event. These included Blondie’s Clem, Iron Maiden’s Nicko McBrain and Formula One’s Eddie Jordan. Charley Boorman, Joe Black, Ru Paul’s Drag Race, and Joe Black.
Evans was first famous for his work on BBC Radio 2’s BBC Breakfast and BBC North West Tonight.
The Friday night highlight was when the BBC’s weatherman and 50 other drummers performed a version of the BBC’s theme song.
Weatherman who performed and drummed through the entire event briefly stopped for breaks to attend to any injuries sustained from his persistent drumming.
Evans stated that he felt overwhelmed after completing the challenge. People have been so kind to him.
“I cannot believe it’s finished, my hands are holding up well, but my arms have been moving for the past 24 hours. We’re having some issues with my arms.
“Thanks to all who have donated to BBC Children In Need, I am able to support causes that are very dear to my heart.
BBC One will broadcast the BBC Children In Need Appeal Show at 7pm Friday, November 19,