Along with a host of internationally renowned celebrities, BBC Children in Need is excited to launch this year’s BearFaced Day. Together, they are asking women across the UK to join them in going BearFaced for BBC Children in Need on Friday 8 November.

The stellar line-up includes TV favourites Arlene Philips and Alex Jones, outstanding actress Sheridan Smith, and talented artist Jo Wood. All have gone BearFaced in a make-up free photo-shoot by world renowned photographer, Rankin, to encourage women across the UK to unite to do the same.

Alex Jones said: “There are so many children and young people across the UK who need our help, so how could I say no to the BBC Children in Need BearFaced campaign? Join me and hundreds of other women going Bearfaced on 8 November.”

Arlene Philips said: “Come on ladies, join me in going BearFaced on Friday 8 November to help raise lots of money for BBC Children in Need.”

Jo Wood said: “I’m so excited to be taking part in BBC Children in Need’s BearFaced campaign this year! I hope that women across the UK will leave the make up at home for the day to help change the lives of children who really do need our help!”

Going BearFaced is a simple way to raise money for BBC Children in Need. Women can either participate alone or set up a Bearfaced team with friends, family and colleagues to make the day more fun.

The pawprints as seen on the BearFaced line-up are available now at Post Offices across the UK. Women are encouraged to swap their make-up for a pawprint to help make a difference to young lives.

Sarah Monteith, Director of Marketing and Fundraising BBC Children in Need, said; “BBC Children in Need is delighted to be bringing BearFaced back in 2013. This is a lovely, simple initiative that women across the UK can take part in to help raise money for disadvantaged children and young people who need our help.”

Find out more at bbc.co.uk/pudsey and prepare a sponsorship page at mydonate.bt.com/events/gobearfaced.

For all press enquiries, please contact Henni Cardy via Henni.cardy@bbc.co.uk