Vernon Kay says 'I didn't tell the kids' as he kept big secret from everyone but Tess Daly

Vernon Kay has opened up on keeping his role in this year's BBC Children In Need under wraps, admitting he kept the secret from his children and that only his wife Tess Daly was in on the news. Last month, it came to light that Vernon is set to join the high-profile presenting team for the 2024 appeal show.

Confirmed to be co-hosting with Rochelle Humes, the dynamic duo will take the stage at BBC One's charity extravaganza along with a handful of stars such as Paralympian Ade Adepitan, comedy gem Mel Giedroyc, TV favourite Chris Ramsay and young talent Lenny Rush, all broadcasting live from Salford's MediaCityUK on Friday, November 15.

Packed with three hours of entertainment, the gala is expected to dazzle with celebrity-laden sketches, live music performances, and thrilling surprises. Furthermore, audiences are eagerly anticipating sneak peeks at a Doctor Who Christmas special, coupled with appearances by icons from Strictly Come Dancing and Gladiator.

Opening up about his inaugural stint hosting Children In Need, Vernon revealed: "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 well-known presenter, aged 50, also shared his family's reaction: "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.", reports the Manchester Evening News.

The star shared his mixed feelings about the upcoming event, saying: "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."

This Morning favourite Rochelle is set to make her grand return as presenter on the live show since her last stint in 2019. She expressed the importance of the event, stating: "It is incredibly significant," and went on to explain, "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."

Vernon couldn't contain his excitement for what's in store, hinting: "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."