The families we’re helping want to help themselves. That’s what’s so moving

BBC personalities reveal why they’re Team Pudsey as TV’s biggest charity extravaganza targets record total

She may be a Children in Need veteran, but the emotional tales still hit Jackie Bird hard.

“The most poignant moments are always of the charities, the children and the families,” says Jackie, who reckons she’s been involved for at least the past 17 years.

“I’ve wobbled so often when I see the films that are made. I actually need to watch them in advance.

“You simply can’t see one when you are unprepared for it. So I watch them in advance, do whatever I need to do, and then I’m ready to introduce them on the night.”

Jackie has been touched by many of those she has met through the years, including youngsters who have needed respite care and have then gone on to become carers themselves.

And families of children with life-limiting illnesses. They are so stoical and even funny.

“And they are often raising money themselves, they don’t just sit and take and feel sorry for themselves,” she explained.

“That’s what moves you and is why doing Children In Need is such an antidote to being involved in news which is so often about man’s inhumanity to man.”

Jackie will get a first-hand look at where the money goes tomorrow on a visit to a riding school for children with special needs.

There is always plenty of entertainment on hand during Children In Need, with Jackie particularly recalling one musical highlight.

“Dougray Scott and myself were on stage doing backing vocals for The Proclaimers, how’s that for something to brag about?”