A SPECIAL tribute to Terry Wogan marked the start of the first Children in Need show since the broadcaster's death.
The Limerick-born DJ and broadcaster hosted the annual BBC charity event for 35 years up until 2015, when he was forced to withdraw due to ill health.
Wogan died in January after a battle with cancer.
The presenters of last night's show, Tess Daly and Greg James, began by promising to "give everything" in honour of the Irishman.
Tess Daly said: "This is our first year without our dear friend and charismatic leader, Sir Terry.
"Sir Terry was everything that embodied Children in Need and someone we will all miss very much."
Greg James added: "It is up to us to continue his legacy."
After quoting Wogan's trademark radio sign-off, "thank you for being my friend", James added: "That sums up the man perfectly. To return the favour, the best way to do that is to give everything tonight."
Cork-born Graham Norton is among those taking up the presenting role in Wogan's place.
Oscar-winning actor Eddie Redmayne said: "I have such fond memories of Children in Need - growing up, I loved watching all the special sketches and performances, and, of course, Sir Terry Wogan's inimitable presenting.
Clare Pizey and Paul Wright, Children in Need's executive producers, said the long-running host's presence will be missed.
In a statement, they said: "This year will feel very different as the great Sir Terry Wogan is no longer with us but we will do our best to honour his memory."
Earlier this week, the home of Radio 2, BBC Western House in central London, was renamed BBC Wogan House.
Last night's event kicked off with a live performance from the West End cast of the Disney Aladdin musical.
There were also performances and sketches from the cast of EastEnders, Ricky Gervais as David Brent and stars from The Great British Bake Off.
Since its creation in 1980, the charity has raised over £600 million.
Children In Need aims to protect every child in the UK and currently supports 2,400 projects.
In Northern Ireland, BBC Children in Need supports 197 projects with financial assistance of more than £8 million and last year more than £900,000 was raised in Northern Ireland.
