RADIO presenter Zoe Ball says it is more important than ever to get involved with the Children In Need campaign this year.

BBC star Zoe, who lives in Ditchling, has appealed to the public for their support.

The annual fundraiser aims to shed light on the impact of the Covid pandemic on children and young people across Britain, six months after the UK went into lockdown.

A YouGov poll on behalf of the campaign revealed 94 per cent of children and young people have had cause to feel worried, sad or anxious in the last six months.

The 49-year-old Radio 2 presenter said: “This year’s appeal feels more important than ever given the situation we all find ourselves in, but there is hope.

“Extraordinary things happen when people join forces to make a difference.

“BBC Children In Need have accomplished incredible things over the years and that is only possible thanks to the public’s generosity. Together, we really can make a difference.”

It comes after the star’s salary increased to £1.36 million a year, making her the corporation’s top female earner – though she later asked for a cut, saying she felt “uncomfortable” with the figure.

Children In Need’s 40th anniversary appeal show is due to take place on Friday, November 13.