Griff Rhys Jones' Happy Christmas Ipswich at Regent Theatre raises over £104,000 for East Anglia's Children's Hospices

A star-studded Christmas variety show raised over £104,000 for a good cause – smashing last year's 'eye-watering' total.

Organised by Griff Rhys Jones and featuring big names including Jon Culshaw, Bill Bailey and Milton Jones, Happy Christmas Ipswich, which took place at the Regent Theatre on Monday, raised the roof for East Anglia's Children's Hospices.

Tickets sold-out, and 1,500 people enjoyed a night of music, jokes and fun.

Becky Redbond, events manager for EACH, said: “What an incredible night. It’s the third time we’ve held the show and it gets bigger and better every time.

“The variety is superb and the acts are simply first-class, generously giving their time to support our charity.

“Our thanks go to every person who came along, for buying tickets and putting money in our collection buckets.

“I hope they loved the mix of comedy and music and I bet they’re still on a real high, just like I am.”

Other famous faces included Adam Buxton, Tiff Stevenson, Blackadder producer John Lloyd, Only Fools and Horses actor Phil Pope and his band, alongside comedians Geoff Norcott, Deborah Francis-White and Rory McGrath.

It saw Mr Rhys Jones arrive by train before climbing onto the roof dressed as Santa.

Last year, the show raised £92,000 for EACH.

The charity looks after children with life-threatening illnesses and their families.

Mr Rhys Jones, who lives in Suffolk, has been a supporter of the charity for years.

Becky added the team couldn't be happier to smash last year's total, describing it as a night that will live on in memory.

She noted the final total is still being added up, but has already exceeded £104,000.

The team also gave thanks to the businesses and donors who supported the show.