Celebrity duo 'dropped' from beloved BBC special as all-star replacements revealed

has confirmed neither nor will return to front this year's Children in Need broadcast. The celebrity pair have been replaced on the special by newcomer and favourite .

Former and England Lionesses legend Alex, 40, has been at the helm of Children in Need since debuting in 2020. However, the broadcaster has announced she is not part of this year's presenting lineup, dubbed the Salford Six.

Comedian Jason, 43, is also stepping back from the programme following two successful, consecutive live broadcasts. The reveal coincides with Vernon's appointment off the back of his heroic Ultramarathon challenge with .

Speaking out on his inclusion, the father-of-two said: "I'm truly honoured to be a presenter for BBC Children in Need this year, supporting such an incredible cause. Last year's knee-ruining run from Leicester to Bolton was brutal-one of the toughest things I've ever done-so I'm thrilled to be joining you from the comfort of MediaCity this time!

"Children in Need is such a special charity, changing lives in the most amazing ways, and I couldn't be prouder to be part of this year's big night," he added. Vernon will also be joined by former Saturdays singer Rochelle, who returns to present Children in Need for the first time since 2019.

"Nothing brings the UK together quite like BBC Children in Need and I'm so delighted to be back in the studio this year," she shared.

"I'm always blown away by the generosity and spirit of the night, and it's a wonderful cause so close to my heart. I'm sure there will be many laughs, tears, surprises and a whole heap of inspiration in store for us all on the night".

The co-presenting pair are set to join returning stars Ade Adepitan, Chris Ramsay and Lenny Rush as well as Mel Giedroyc, who took over the main hosting position from Vernon's wife and Strictly Come Dancing alumna in 2020.

"It's great to be back presenting such a magical show," she said ahead of her fifth consecutive special in charge. "You can expect a memorable evening in support of raising funds for children and youth across the UK".

Children in Need commissioner Kalpna Patel-Knight, Head of Entertainment at the BBC, has issued her own statement on this year's co-hosts.

She gushed: "Our Salford Super Six are set to guide everyone through a brilliant night of entertainment that truly unites people all across the UK for an incredibly important cause. It's going to be unmissable!"

The evening is set to include appeal films featuring some of the children and young people whose lives have been altered through the support of BBC Children in Need.

The show will also see the public being asked to "make life lighter" for children all across the UK.

Tune into Children In Need live from MediaCityUK in Salford from 7pm on Friday 15 November via BBC One and BBC iPlayer.