'I look forward to it every year - it's a real honour'

As the Daily Mirror Pride Of Britain Awards With TSB returns, hosts Carol Vorderman and Ashley Banjo chat about their special bond

- GEORGIA TREVITT

BEST OF BRITISH

The Daily Mirror Pride Of Britain Awards With TSB is always a guaranteed tear-jerker, as co-hosts Carol Vorderman and Ashley Banjo know all too well. And as they return for the 24th annual event, they reveal we’re in for another year of incredibly inspirational stories.

Former Countdown star Carol, who has hosted the awards since 1999, says she’s “really looking forward” to being back on the stage. While Dancing On Ice judge Ashley, who joined Carol in 2021, adds, “It reminds you that you never know where life is going to go.”

The duo met after Carol took part in I’m A Celebrity in 2016 alongside Ashley’s brother Jordan – and they’ve grown closer ever since. As we catch up, it’s clear they’ve formed a strong bond.

Carol, who has just published Carol Vorderman’s Perfect 10 Quiz Book which is based on her chart-topping quiz podcast Perfect 10, has no plans to slow down. The 62-year-old, who is mum to Katie, 32, and Cameron, 26, says, “I’ve got a lot of projects that will keep me busy. It’s a good place to be.”

Ashley, 35 this week, is dad to Rose, four, and Micah, three, and is working equally as hard. He’s just finished his West End stint in The Wizard Of Oz, he’s been filming The Real Full Monty and is rehearsing for Diversity’s tour.

Here, they talk about family life and why the Pride Of Britain Awards is so close to their hearts…

Hi, both! What’s your favourite part of hosting the Daily Mirror Pride Of Britain Awards With TSB?