CHILDREN in Need Appeal mascot Pudsey Bear last night met the region's business leaders as part of fundraising efforts.

The yellow bear appeared at the North East Chamber of Commerce's annual Tyne and Wear Dinner.

A radio fundraising effort by BBC Radio Newcastle was also launched at the dinner.

Afternoon duo Ian Robinson and Paul Wappat have committed themselves to a 25-hour programme in aid of the appeal.

Mr Robinson said: "Paul and I are crabby and irritable when tired, but we are going to be crabby and irritable for Children in Need.

"It's going to be a trial for us broadcasting for 25 hours, but even more so for the listeners.

"In all seriousness now, we are really looking forward to raising as much money as possible for Children in Need."

North-East business and political figures attended the dinner, the highlight of the chamber's social calendar.

Liberal Democrat treasury spokesman Dr Vincent Cable and Sir Christopher Garnett, GNER's chief executive, were the main speakers.

Wendy Reaney, the chamber's head of events, said: "Pudsey's presence at our event was great to see.

"It reflects how much business people give to charity and to their local communities.

"We were particularly pleased that Ian and Paul chose the chamber's Tyne and Wear Dinner to kick off their marathon show.

"How anyone can talk for that length of time is beyond me, but if anyone can, they can."