Alicia Keys, Coldplay open Haiti telethon

The 'Hope For Haiti Now' telethon has got under way, featuring some of the biggest names in showbusiness working to raise funds for Haiti earthquake relief efforts.

The event began with a performance from Alicia Keys in Los Angeles, followed by a welcome and an appeal to help the Haitian people by George Clooney.

Coldplay then performed their song 'A Message', beamed from their London studio. Other artists still to appear include Madonna in New York City, Beyoncé, Sting, Christina Aguilera and Shakira.