BBC and ITV stars to battle it out in first ever University Challenge celebrity special

STARS from the BBC and ITV will go head-to-head in a special episode of University Challenge for BBC Children in Need.

ITV‘s team will be led by broadcaster Kaye Adams and will consist of celebrity guests Dr Ranj Singh, comedian Russell Kane and Loose Women’s Denise Welch.

Meanwhile, their BBC rivals will be led by TV presenter Rick Edwards and made up of Radio 4’s Mishal Husain, Mock the Week comedian Angela Barnes and impressionist Jon Culshaw.

Kirsty Wark will host the one-off show in place of regular University Challenge presenter Jeremy Paxman.

Rick said: “I’ve subjected myself to a University Challenge appearance before and been humiliated, not to mention patronised by Paxman, but I am a very firm believer in facing your fears.

“Obviously I’m relieved that Kirsty was in the chair this time because she was a bit gentler.”

Kaye admitted she and her fellow celebs had a “good laugh” shooting the episode for such a great cause.

She added: “Being on team ITV and going head-to-head with the Beeb was surreal but a good laugh.

“Obviously we all know it’s for a brilliant cause, but I would be lying if I said that reined in anyone’s competitive spirit!”

Viewers will be able to make donations throughout the episode by visiting the BBC website.

University Challenge is one of the most famous and iconic quiz shows in the world.

In the programme, players must answer questions on all manner of subjects, and this special BBC Children in Need edition will pit BBC stars against ITV icons to see who emerges top of the class.