Stephen Fry and Miranda Hart to Host BT British Olympic Ball

Two of Britain’s best loved entertainers, Stephen Fry and Miranda Hart, have been confirmed as the hosts of this year’s BT British Olympic Ball at Kensington Olympia on Friday 7th October.

The British Olympic Association (BOA) event, which will act as a crucial fundraiser for Team GB ahead of the London 2012 Olympic Games, is set to be a celebrity packed evening with a host of Britain’s greatest Olympians and leading names from the world of sport and entertainment due to attend.

Stephen and Miranda will lead the evening’s entertainment and will be joined by a series of high profile performers.

Current star of Strictly Come Dancing, Rory Bremner, will also play a crucial role at the event as an additional host over the course of what is set to be an incredible celebration of the greatest team Great Britain and Northern Ireland has sent to an Olympic Games for over a century.

The BOA has also confirmed today that award winning artists, Tinchy Stryder and Dappy, will perform a series of songs on the evening. The duo have experienced huge chart success during 2011 with Dappy’s latest single, ‘No Regrets’, currently number 1 in the charts and Tinchy releases his new single "Off the Record" in November. They have had great success with two collaborations, ‘Spaceship’ and "Number 1".

Sir Tom Jones has already been unveiled as the headline act for the event.

The evening’s entertainment will also see high profile nightclub, Chinawhite, run the exclusive on site after party for all attending guests.

Stephen Fry commented:

"As the London 2012 Olympic Games draw ever nearer, the athletes that will be a part of Team GB are increasingly becoming the superstars of this country. The Games will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for everyone, from the athletes competing to those of us who will be cheering them on, so it is essential that we do everything we can to ensure our athletes have the best possible chance of success.

"I am absolutely delighted to be involved with this year’s BT British Olympic Ball as it plays such a crucial role in providing our athletes with the ultimate preparation, from training camps to medical and logistical support. The funds raised will help to ensure we can all rejoice as we watch Team GB’s athletes unite the nation with their inspirational performances next summer."

Miranda Hart added:

"I feel very honoured to have been asked to present the BT British Olympic Ball. It's lovely to feel part in some way of Team GB, particularly since they didn't let me compete in any category, even the high jump where I am naturally gifted."

Rory Bremner said:

"Everyone is getting excited about the prospect of London 2012 and so I’m sure the BT British Olympic Ball will be a special evening of celebration. It’s important to emphasise the critical nature of this event for Team GB as well, the funds it raises make a tangible difference to our athletes, meaning we can all celebrate their successes next summer. I’m pleased to be involved with the event, it will be a fantastic evening for everyone attending."

Andy Hunt, Team GB Chef de Mission and BOA CEO said:

"We are delighted to announce such a strong line up of talent for this very special occasion in support of Team GB – Our Greatest Team. In combination with the many Olympians - past, present and future - in attendance, these personalities will ensure that the Best of British talent is showcased across the worlds of sport, music and entertainment. With these artists joining the legendary Tom Jones, the BT British Olympic Ball is all set to be a spectacular night to remember."

Suzi Williams, director, BT Group Marketing and Brand, added:

"Everyone at BT is proud to be supporting this fantastic event for the second year in a row and getting behind Team GB. Having Stephen Fry and Miranda Hart as co-hosts will ensure a highly entertaining and memorable night for all those involved."

With limited spaces left available for the evening, this announcement represents the last chance for anyone interested in attending to book one of the remaining tables. For more information on the BT British Olympic Ball, or to book tickets, visit www.britisholympicball.com

For more information, contact: Drew.barrand@pitch.co.uk

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