Vernon Kay says 'I didn't tell the kids' as he hid news from everyone but wife Tess Daly

Vernon Kay has told how he didn't tell his children about his latest gig, confirming no one but his wife Tess Daly knew. It was announced last month that he'll be joining the presenting line-up for this year's BBC Children In Need appeal show for the first time.

Announced alongside Rochelle Humes, it was revealed that the pair are set to host the big televised charity event on BBC One alongside Paralympian Ade Adepitan, comedian Mel Giedroyc, presenter Chris Ramsay and actor Lenny Rush live from MediaCityUK in Salford on Friday, November 15.

The three-hour fundraiser will be filled with star-studded sketches, musical acts and surprises from a host of celebrities - with a Doctor Who Christmas special preview and appearances from Strictly Come Dancing and Gladiator stars already confirmed.

READ MORE: BBC Strictly Come Dancing's JB Gill breaks silence on 'heartbreaking' Amy Dowden exit

Speaking about being lined-up to host the appeal show for the first time, Veron said: "I didn’t tell the kids or any of the family – only Tess knew I’d been offered the gig – so they all found out when we announced it on The One Show along with everyone else!"

The 50-year-old went on: "They’re buzzing for me… BBC Children in Need has always been a big deal in our house – as you’ll know Tess presented it for years alongside Sir Terry (Wogan) – so it’s a really big deal for me to be a part of it.

"There’s the emotional element of being part of something that’s doing so much good, but also the practical – terrifying! – element that it’s a massive production and millions of people will be tuning in. I’m going to be wearing my lucky underpants on the night, that’s for sure, and I’ll be tapping Tess up for some tips in these next few weeks."

Meanwhile, This Morning star Rochelle makes her first presenting appearance on the live show since 2019. "It is incredibly significant," the 35-year-old said of the night.

"Children in Need isn’t just about one night of fundraising; it’s about real, lasting change for so many families. The money raised goes into essential projects that support children facing all sorts of challenges – whether it’s mental health support, disabilities, or even just providing safe spaces to grow and learn. These are life-changing moments for families in need of this vital support."

On what we have to look forward to on the night, Vernon teased: "There’s some incredibly exciting stuff which I’ve been sworn to secrecy about… I’m just so looking forward to everything coming together on the night! We’re going to have some particularly special guests, including a sparkling line up of celebs, some incredible fundraising challenges and awe-inspiring young people."