‘THEIR LIFE VIEWS RUB OFF ON YOU, IT MAKES YOU WANT TO BE BETTER'

Carol Vorderman tells new about the joy of meeting so many special people as Pride Of Britain host, refusing to conform and how her priorities have changed

- KIRSTY HATCHER, ANNA MATHESON

It’s impossible to not think of Carol Vorderman when the Pride Of Britain Awards are mentioned. The 60-year-old has been at the helm of the annual bash since it launched in 1999, shedding a tear with us all as we marvel at the achievements of the UK’s everyday heroes.

And this year, the former Countdown presenter, 60, is being joined by a co-host for the first time. The “wonderful” Ashley Banjo will be by her side at this year’s ceremony, which will also be attended by her children Cameron, 24, and Katie, 29, and her brother Anton, 69. “It will be like a family reunion, as I haven’t seen my brother in two years thanks to Covid and him living in Holland!” Carol tells us. “I’m so excited.”

Like the Pride Of Britain winners, Carol has never been one to conform or to worry about what people think. “There are always articles about what I’m wearing and should I be wearing it, which I find hilarious. Who says you can’t wear something just because you’re 60?” she laughs.

Here, Carol tells new about always following her own path…

Hi, Carol! Congratulations on your 22nd year as host of the Daily Mirror Pride Of Britain Awards, in partnership with TSB…

It is amazing. It’s a lifetime, isn’t it?! I’m really looking forward to this year’s ceremony. I think it will be a celebration for lots of people. I’m very lucky to have met all the winners over the years and these are incredibly inspirational people. The more special people you meet, their view on life rubs off on you and makes you want to be better.

The awards are always an emotional event, is it ever hard for you to hold it together?