Big Four accountancy giant Ernst & Young will be donning its metaphorical red nose for Comic Relief today as its becomes the charity's official honorary accountant for the 14th consecutive year.

E&Y expects to account for over £5m in public donations, as well as providing over 50 staff who between them donate over 4,500 hours of their time to process some 35,000 cheques.

John Cooney, E&Y tax partner, who will be co-ordinating the firm's number crunchers, said: 'Our people fully enter into the spirit of Red Nose Day, through all the various fundraising activities, and there is always a real buzz around our offices. We really value this fun day, but we also have a huge year-round responsibility to provide the accounting support Comic Relief relies on.'

E&Y staff across the UK will also be taking part in fundraising activities and hope to smash the impressive £100,000 figure raised last year, through fancy dress, quiz nights, flash dancing and sponsored silliness.

Steve Varley, E&Y's UK country managing partner said: 'Comic Relief is a great opportunity for our people to get involved with raising money for an important cause. Our role as honorary accountant is an enormous privilege and we are delighted to celebrate 14 years of working together.'