British Airways has signed up Comic Relief as its new global charity partner in a move that will strengthen it’s support for disadvantaged people and communities around the world.

Lenny Henry, Comedian and trustee of Comic Relief said: “We are delighted to have British Airways on board as our new partner and hope to have lots of fun raising heaps of cash!

“Together we hope to bring lasting change to the lives of some of the poorest and most vulnerable people here in the UK and across the world.”

The new partnership will raise money to help people in acute need, both at home in the UK and across the World’s poorest countries.

Willie Walsh, British Airways’ chief executive, said: “I’m proud to announce our new partnership with Comic Relief, which will expand and develop British Airways’ role in helping some of the world’s most vulnerable people.

“Comic Relief is a charity, which I believe will inspire all our people on the ground and in the air.”

Kevin Cahill, chief executive of Comic Relief said: “We’re delighted to have been chosen as a long term partner of British Airways, which offers us the chance to reach out to staff and customers worldwide, all year round.”