BBC Radio Stoke 28-hour Comic Relief 'laugh-along'

The presenter said it was a privilege to be involved in the charity fundraising

Comic Relief gets an early start as BBC Radio Stoke breakfast presenter Lee Blakeman presents a 28-hour long show.

The 'laugh-along' began at 06:00 GMT and is set to feature a range of comedians, celebrities, games and quizzes.

"I feel really privileged to be able to do my bit for Comic Relief," Blakeman said.

The host said the hardest part of the challenge would be coping with the sleep deprivation as he 'gets grouchy' when tired.

'Absolute joy'

Guests include comedian and presenter Nick Hancock, Keith Brymer-Jones from the Great Pottery Throwdown and pantomime star Jonathan Wilkes.

Melvyn Downes from SAS: Who Dares Wins, playwright Deb McAndrew and The Traitors winner Hannah Byczkowski will also feature.

"It's going to be great person after great person," said Blakeman adding he was worried about surprises along the way.

"I hate surprises - I'm a control freak," he said.

There were also a few practical concerns about broadcasting for 28 hours straight.

"When to eat and what to eat, that's a worry," said the presenter.

And as the tiredness kicks in towards the end of the show at 10:00 GMT on Friday, he was concerned about his brain switching off.

"Am I going to end up saying something rude?!"