Top of the Pops still No 1

Britain's leading music show, Top Of The Pops, broadcasts its 2,000th episode tonight with a host of stars lining up to celebrate.

Since it was first shown in 1964, the programme has become a national institution for generations of fans.

Status Quo, who have been around almost as long as the show, will make their 106th appearance on the anniversary programme. No other band has appeared as many times.

The show has been through highs and lows, with the latest controversy coming when its producer, Chris Cowey, recently accused record companies of fixing the charts.

"The programme was dysfunctional and often full of crap," he said. "The show is successful in spite of the top 40 chart - not because of it."

The 2,000th anniversary is the second major party for the show in 12 months. In October last year, it was given a major revamp as it celebrated its move back to its home at the BBC Television Centre after 10 years away.

In tonight's show, Status Quo will give a special birthday rendition of their classic hit Rocking All Over the World. In a recent interview, the band's guitarist Rick Parfitt told how important it was for up and coming bands to get a slot on the show.

Also on bill are All Saints singers the Appleton sisters, whose single Fantasy is currently at No 2.

Tom Jones will perform a duet with US rapper Wyclef, and Atomic Kitten will sing their No 1 The Tide Is High. The first Top of the Pops was broadcast from Manchester on New Year's Day 1964 and was hosted by Jimmy Savile.It is now seen by 90 countries round the world.