Carol Vorderman sings 'Happy Birthday' to herself to mark 40 years in TV

Carol Vorderman has wished herself a happy birthday to mark her 40 years on TV, joking that she's "worn out" just thinking about her thousands of television appearances.

The star, 61, made her small screen debut in November 1982 on Countdown.

Sharing a clip from the programme on Instagram, Vorderman said it was the first show on then new channel, Channel 4.

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In a post entitled "FORTY YEARS OF ME ON THE TELLY", she wrote: "Happy birthday Channel 4 and Countdown… And happy TV birthday to (me).

"So here’s a short slice of my 40 years. Hosting numerous prime time shows across all of our telly channels. Nearly 10,000 appearances altogether.... I’m worn out just thinking about it."

Vorderman said it had been "a wonderful life".

"I’ve been lucky and grateful for all the laughing and the opportunities and interesting times with amazing people," she said.

"There are too many shows to include but you’ll get the idea!

"But above all, and I mean this, the love that people have given me over 40 years and the stories they’ve told me of how some of these shows have influenced them and their families for the good..... Well there is nothing to compare to that. So if you see me out, always tell me your story. It means the world."

She signed off: "Forever yours, Carol."

The TV star shared another clip of her singing Happy Birthday to herself, Channel 4 and Countdown.

"Going to celebrate nicely," she added.

Vorderman's fans and celebrity friends flocked to congratulate her on the milestone.

This Morning's Vanessa Feltz posted: "Look forward to at least another 40."

And Corrie's Kym Marsh chimed in: "Still a hot momma x."

Read more: Carol Vorderman says she plans to stay single and is ‘not suited to being in a couple’

Maths whizz Vorderman made her name on Countdown and was on the popular show for 26 years, leaving in 2008.

Watch: Lorraine Kelly urges Carol Vorderman to be the new host of 'Countdown'