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

Vernon Kay has revealed how he kept his latest gig a secret from almost everyone - except from wife Tess Daly. The BBC Radio 2 star was recently announced as part of the line-up for this year's BBC Children in Need.

He will host the televised charity event on BBC One alongside Rochelle Humes, Paralympian Ade Adepitan, comedian Mel Giedroyc, presenter Chris Ramsay and actor Lenny Rush. It will air live from MediaCityUK, in Salford, on Friday, November 15.

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

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Speaking about hosting Children in Need for the first time, Vernon 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 added: "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."

ITV This Morning's Rochelle will also make her first presenting appearance on Children in Need since 2019, Manchester Evening News reports. The 35-year-old said: "It is incredibly significant.

"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." Looking ahead to 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."