Stars such as Lorraine Kelly, Olivia Colman and Michelle Keegan have banned the slap by ditching their make-up to encourage people to raise money for BBC Children In Need.

They are among a number of well-known names who have bared their skin for the charity and are instead wearing just a Pudsey pawprint on their faces.

Also taking part in the annual BearFaced campaign to go make-up free for the day, prior to November 14, are Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Laura Mvula, Rochelle Humes and Ella Eyre.

Ellis-Bextor said: "It is a campaign that brings women together from across the UK, and is something I am very proud to be a part of."

Colman said: "Please join me in showing your support for BBC Children in Need by having a BearFaced moment this year. Whether it is a five-minute moment or a one-hour moment, I want to see your beautiful bare faces across the UK, but don't forget your pawprint."

Participants are encouraged to buy the pawprints at Boots stores for £1 and share photos of themselves at bbc.co.uk/pudsey.

Sarah Monteith, director of fundraising for Children In Need, said: "It's a great initiative that always proves successful, it's such a simple way for women across the UK to get involved and raise money for those that need it most."