The cash boost from the Government will go to telephone operations run by charities helping those in greatest need amid the Covid-19 pandemic. The announcement came during last night’s show, where viewers were treated with variety act Steve Royle, dancing duo Aaron and Jasmine, magician Magical Bones, comedy singer and performer Jon Courtenay and stand-up Nabil Abdulrashid.
Also performing were magic duo James and Dylan Piper, magician Damien O’Brien, the Sign Along With Us choir and magicians Jasper Cherry and Aidan McCann.
The Government donation was timed to coincide with World Mental Health Day and inspired by ITV’s Help Our Helplines campaign. A further £2million is being ploughed into looking at the effects of the virus on the mental health of at-risk groups.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “This unprecedented pandemic has changed life as we know it and will have understandably caused or added to the concerns and hardship of those suffering from mental health conditions.
“Mental health charities do an amazing job… and I am delighted to be able to extend support by giving £1million.”
Last night’s BGT final also gave viewers a sneak preview of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!, which is being filmed in Wales rather than Australia this year due to Covid-19.
The trailer suggests co-hosts Ant and Dec aren’t aware of the show’s change of location.
“Ah, it’s great to be back Down Under,” says Ant as he steps out of a taxi and into a pile of dung. “I would hate to see the kangaroo who left that.” Pulling off an eye mask, Dec adds: “Wow, that was quick. I must have slept through the whole flight.”
