On its 50th birthday, Blue Peter hijacks BBC One for a special, one-off, live, extended edition of the show.

Jam-packed with delights for fans, the centrepiece of the 50th birthday show is a unique tea party at Buckingham Palace. Her Majesty The Queen has invited current presenters, key production staff and a selection of the longest-serving presenters from each of the show’s five decades to the Palace to celebrate.

Her Majesty also recognises four very special Blue Peter viewers, who are given the surprise of their lives when current Blue Peter presenters Helen Skelton, Joel Defries and Andy Akinwolere turn up and invite them to take tea with The Queen. They are presented with a Jubilee edition of the programme’s highest award, the Gold Blue Peter Badge.

There are more special guests when McFly perform their latest song, live, on the show – with Joel taking over the drums for a challenge.

And the programme culminates with the presenters launching a fireworks display, turning the iconic BBC Television Centre building into a shower of blue and gold fireworks.

The show also features Helen, Joel and Andy going head-to-head in a thrilling powerboat race.

In addition, Peter Purves joins new presenter Helen to present a special 50th birthday Red button interactive quiz that tests young and old fans alike on their knowledge of Blue Peter.

Thursday 16 October
5.15-6.00pm BBC ONE