Category: Factual & Arts TV; Children in Need
Date: 01.02.2006
Printable version
The latest calendar from Â鶹Éç ONE's Countryfile has raised the largest amount of money in its history.
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The calendar generated more than a quarter of a million pounds for Â鶹Éç Children in Need in just a few weeks.
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Sales were up by £32,000 when compared to last year.
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The calendar is the result of Countryfile's annual photographic competition featuring viewers' pictures on the theme of water.
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It has sold a phenomenal 50,000 copies since the end of October.
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The two winners of the contest were Mike Cruise for Heron and Rosy Burke for Fun in the Waves. They both received holiday vouchers and photographic equipment.
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Presenter John Craven was joined by comedian Jo Brand and wildlife presenter and photographer Chris Packham to judge an incredible 11,000 entries for the competition.
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Out of all these only 12 could feature in the final product.
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Countryfile viewers also got the chance to vote for their favourite in a phone poll.
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Past themes for the calendar competition, which has been running since 2000, have included British Nature and The Four Seasons in the British Countryside.
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John Craven says: "The calendar really does showcase the British countryside and coastline at its very best so we're extremely grateful to everyone who sent in photographs.
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"Our thanks also go to all the Countryfile viewers whose support has made this calendar the most successful yet."
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Calendars are available by calling 08700 623 600, or writing to Â鶹Éç Countryfile Calendar, PO Box 25, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, LE13 1ZG.
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Alternatively they can be purchased on the Countryfile website. They cost £8.50 with £4 of that going to Children in Need.
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For a look at the stunning pictures featured in the calendar, visit bbc.co.uk/countryfile.
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Notes to Editors
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Countryfile, Â鶹Éç ONE, Sundays, 11.00am, is presented by John Craven and features the latest rural and environmental stories, as well as celebrating the British countryside.
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Â鶹Éç Birmingham Press Office
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