ITV This Morning viewers were left emotional after a powerful Remembrance Day segment featuring 13-year-old Ruby Sheffield, who has raised £25,000 for the Royal British Legion. The interview, hosted by Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley, aired on Wednesday, November 11, and included a two-minute silence observed at 11am.
Teen's fundraising and inspiration
Ruby, from Sheffield, has spent over half her life raising money for veterans, inspired by her dad Dan, who served for eight years in the Royal Logistic Corps. She began fundraising at the age of four and has so far raised £25,000 for the Royal British Legion, wanting veterans to feel supported all year round, not just during the annual Poppy Appeal.
Dad Dan described his daughter as "an extraordinarily bright young girl," adding, "there's no words I can used to describe her." Ruby makes cards and crafts to help raise funds, telling hosts she gets "new ideas all the time."
Poem and emotional reaction
Asked why the appeal matters to her, Ruby said: "They helped my dad when he came out the army and other veterans as well." She then shared part of a special poem she had written, inspired by veterans, prompting Ben to remark: "Goodness me, that is an extraordinary poem, wow. It's so perspective and eloquent."
Dad Dan admitted he was a "mess" after hearing the words for the first time, and it was revealed the poem has "saved two people's lives."
Nation falls silent
At 11am precisely, the interview was interrupted as the nation fell silent for two minutes to remember the service and sacrifices of the Armed Forces. ITV observed the silence with This Morning airing live scenes from The Cenotaph, Stockport, Cardiff, and across the UK, showing service men and women paying their respects.
Ben said: "It's always I think one of the most powerful and moving days of the year isn't it. A bit of silence in the middle of the city of London and all around those places in the UK. It's such an important day."
Turning back to Ruby, he added: "The way it resonates with you sitting her alongside your dad I know it's really special. We're exceptionally proud of what you have managed to do and you're clearly a very talented artist. We wanted to give you something to say thank you and to help for the future."
Viewer reactions
Viewers took to X to share their emotions. One wrote: "See, these are the kinds of people you should have on your sofa. Well done." Another said: "This girl will go far, you can just tell even at 13," while a third added: "What an incredible inspirational young lady, beautiful words."
Others admitted: "Oh my goodness I’m welling up here" and "Now I'm in tears! That was incredible!" This Morning airs weekdays at 10am on ITV.
