Pride of Britain Awards

Olivia Attwood takes a swipe at footballer ex and drops biggest hint yet she’s engaged to Pete Wicks

OLIVIA Attwood has taken a swipe at her footballer ex Bradley Dack with a tongue-in-cheek new post.

The TV personality sparked engagement rumours with her new boyfriend Pete Wicks just last week, and has now dropped another hint that wedding bells are on the way.

Olivia Attwood has seemingly dropped the biggest hint yet that she’s engaged to boyfriend Pete Wicks Credit: Instagram
The star raised eyebrows last week when she appeared to be wearing a rock on her left hand Credit: Shutterstock Editorial

Olivia and Pete have been dating since early this year, with the romance coming after she split from husband and partner of a decade Bradley Dack.

Now, Olivia has shared a new picture to Instagram which features a figure in a black cloak calling her – with the phrase: “Your ex the minute he sees you happy” written over the snap.

The swipe implies that Bradley may have gotten back in touch with Olivia after seeing her smitten with new man Pete.

Another snap in the post sees Olivia writing “Mrs Olivia Wicks” in a notepad – convincing fans that a wedding may not be as far off as they think.

spill the tea

Towie’s Junaid & Joe break silence on co-stars shock axe & new podcast gig


CORSET IN THE ACT

Helen Flanagan strips totally naked for bath before posing in red corset

She shared a new post which seemingly swiped at her ex Bradley Dack – with this picture referencing the footballer Credit: olivia_attwood/Instagram
Olivia was previously in a relationship with Gillingham FC footballer Bradley Dack Credit: Instagram

“Stop right now Mrs Olivia Wicks ❤️‍🔥,” commented one fan.

Another said: “MRS OLIVIA WICKS does have a good ring to it though”.

Last week, Olivia put on a stunning display as she took to the Pride Of Britain Awards.

At the bash, she was seen sporting a sizeable ring on her left hand.

The post also contained a snap of a notepad, where Olivia had wrote ‘Mrs Olivia Wicks’ Credit: olivia_attwood/Instagram
The post was to promote her upcoming Halloween party event Credit: olivia_attwood/Instagram

This had many curious whether she and Pete – despite only being together around 6 months – were preparing to tie the knot.

In June, while appearing on Celebrity Gogglebox, Olivia revealed she would like to get married.

The star was joined by her mother Jennifer when the topic of marriage came up – and it appeared she has given it some thought.

Olivia jokingly said: “I’ve decided now I am going to get married a few times, or engaged, because I like the ring.”

The star ‘married’ ex Bradley Dack in a ceremony that was televised, but it was revealed this year the couple never actually signed on the dotted line to make things legally binding.

Olivia later admitted she was worried the footballer would take half of her money if they had officially wed.

Olivia told Cosmopolitan: ‘”My sister said to me, ‘If it was a man who was skeptical about their partner’s honesty, and they didn’t legally bind themselves to a person, everyone would be like, good for you, because she would’ve taken half your money’.

“I did the same thing and they wanted to burn me at the f****** stake. Where would I be now [if we had signed?]”.

Source link

ITV viewers ‘in tears’ minutes into Pride of Britain Awards as they say same thing

The Mirror’s Pride of Britain Awards has become a huge event in the calendar with the country’s unsung heroes being honoured for their bravery

The 2026 Mirror Pride of Britain Awards ceremony is being screened on ITV tonight (Thursday, October 22) as the nation’s unsung heroes are recognised for their inspiring contributions to society and acts of bravery.

The awards were presented inside at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel on Monday infront of a star-studded line up including King Charles, England legend Jude Belllingham, presenter Davina McCall and comedian Alan Carr.

Hosted by Carol Vorderman and Ashley Banjo, viewers will witness plenty of emotion and surprises along with inspirational stories of bravery, achievement and selflessness as well as a special performance from boyband Blue.

And just minutes into the broadcast of the awards – which have been a firm fixture since their launch in 1999 – ITV viewers could not hold back their emotion as they shared how important they think the awards are.

READ MORE: Tears and triumph as Pride of Britain Awards honour our greatest quiet heroes

One said: “Get the hankies ready (two crying emojis).” A second posted: “It’s that time of the year again…spend all night crying.” A third shared: “#PrideOfBritain never fails to put life into perspective The reminder that real heroes walk among us.”

Another said: “Pride of Britain shows that while the world can be cruel, it also shows there are some truly brilliant human beings around. It never fails to put a smile on my face just knowing there are still plenty of good folk about.” A fifth commented: “The #PrideOfBritain Awards shows how Beautiful, British #Heroes really are.”

One viewer expressed: “#Prideofbritain. Restores your faith in humanity. There are still the most wonderful people out there. We should be praising them all (clapping emojis).”

This year’s awards include the Child of Courage accolade which was won by quick-thinking Zac Howells who was just 12 years old when his mum Nicola Crump suddenly passed out while driving them at 60mph on a dual carriageway.

The mum and son, from Ebbw Vale, Wales, were on their way to a Christmas market last December when Nicola fainted, remaining unconscious for around seven minutes.

With her foot pressed on the accelerator, Zac steered the car to safety, bumping it into the central reservation to slow it down, preventing a potentially devastating high speed crash. He then called 999 and gave their location. Nicola says: “It must have been really frightening for him but he knew he had to do something.”

The mum and son appeared on Good Morning Britain on Tuesday, hours after the ceremony, when host Susanna Reid listened in to the 999 call Zac made. She admitted: “I’m in tears listening to it, oh my goodness.”

**Ensure our latest Strictly stories always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. **Click here to activate** or add us as Preferred Source in your Google search settings**

Other recipients included Elaine Oakey (P&O Cruises Inspiration Award) who has spent more than a decade transforming the lives of young amputees through football. Elaine’s mission was inspired by her son Jamie, 23, who was born without a foot and missing the lower part of his right leg.

Elaine Roberts received the Special Recognition award. Her son Andrew took his own life ten years ago, aged just 23, and she and her son-in-law Luke Ambler set up a male suicide prevention charity that has saved thousands of lives.

Andrew Franks from Manchester was handed the Outstanding Bravery award after tackling a knife-wielding terrorist during an attack on his synagogue last year, buying vital time for the congregation to barricade themselves behind the doors.

The Pride of Britain Awards 2026 are available to watch on ITVX

Source link

Katie Price left fuming after being snubbed by Pride of Britain Awards, admitting she ‘didn’t get an invite’

KATIE PRICE has been left furious after she was snubbed by the Pride of Britain Awards as she admitted she “didn’t get an invite.”

The former glamour model’s kids, Princess, 19, and Junior Andre, attended the Awards on Monday and were seen posing up on the red carpet.

Katie has revealed she wasn’t invited to the Pride of Britain Awards despite her kids making the cut Credit: Getty
Princess and Junior Andre attended the Pride of Britain Awards on Monday night Credit: Getty

But, Katie didn’t quite make the cut.

While discussing their booming careers on her podcast, The Katie Price Show, she confessed they were invited to the prestigious event – but she wasn’t.

Katie’s sister, Sophie, asked her what career advice she would give the kids, who she shares with Mysterious Girl singer Peter Andre.

“Well I don’t feel I need to give them any advice because they’re doing fantastic, because they’ve grown up with it,” said Katie.

PRICE OF LOVE

Katie Price puts wedding ring from Lee Andrews back ON & refollows him


mystery & mrs

Mystery as Katie Price REFOLLOWS ex Lee Andrews on Insta & he returns move

“They know what it’s all about. They’re not media trained. They’ve literally lived and grieved it. So they know what they’re doing.

“I’m very, very lucky and they’re lucky. They’re media savvy. They’re bot stupid. They’re naturally trained.”

Katie refollowed Lee on Instagram this week Credit: wesleeeandrews/Instagram
Katie was invited to the National Television Awards last month Credit: Getty

Katie added: “I’m annoyed I didn’t get an invite to the Pride of Britain did I? Again.”

“No but like you never do,” pointed out Sophie.

Swiftly moving on, Sophie and Katie gave their thoughts on Princess and Junior taking part in Celebrity Race Across The World.

They told how one of their family members “took the p*ss” out of Junior, 21, for his map reading skills.

This week, Katie, 48, put her wedding ring back on after dumping her ex-husband Lee Andrews via WhatsApp.

In a shock move, the reality star was seen rocking the huge sparkler on her wedding finger while out and about in Sussex.

Sparking rumours that she’s back with Lee, she was seen emerging from a nail salon after a pampering session with the ring firmly back on her finger.

This comes after she refollowed him on Instagram despite slamming him on social media.

Source link

Pride of Britain 2026: What time is it on TV tonight, channel and who is presenting?

The Pride of Britain Awards 2026 air on ITV1 and ITVX tonight, Thursday, October 22, from 8pm until 10.05pm. Carol Vorderman returns as host for the 27th year running alongside co-host Ashley Banjo.

Stars sparkle of the Pride on Britain red carpet

The Daily Mirror Pride of Britain Awards, in partnerhsip with P&O Cruises, returns to screens tonight to celebrate the nation’s most extraordinary, selfless unsung heroes.

While the glittering ceremony took place took place at London’s Grosvenor House earlier this week, viewers across the country will finally get the chance to experience every emotional standing ovation, surprise, and tear-jerking triumph from their living rooms this evening.

Established by late Mirror editor Peter Willis, the awards have become a cherished fixture in the national calendar, honouring everyday people who show astonishing bravery, tireless dedication, and boundless compassion. Key honours handed out tonight include the This Morning Local Hero Award, the Emergency Services Award, Child and Teenager of Courage, and the P&O Cruises Inspiration Award.

How to watch The Pride of Britain Awards on TV

The Pride of Britain Awards 2026 air tonight – Thursday, October 22 on ITV1 and ITVX from 8pm until 10.05pm.

This year’s ceremony from London’s Grosvenor House Hotel sees a star-studded line up including Jack Grealish, Davina McCall, PM Andy Burnham, and Alan Carr celebrating the nation’s unsung heroes.

Hosted by Carol Vorderman and Ashley Banjo, expect plenty of emotion and surprises along with inspirational stories of bravery, achievement and selflessness. Plus, stepping off their 25th Anniversary Tour for a special performance are boyband Blue.

Who is hosting The Pride of Britain Awards?

Telly legend Carol Vorderman, 65, has returned to front the ceremony for her 27th consecutive year, once again joined by co-host Ashley Banjo.

“Pride of Britain is needed now more than ever,” she told the Mirror. “We’re incredibly divided as a nation. And there are plenty of reasons to be miserable: the cost of living crisis, global uncertainty. But through it all, one thing unites us – and that is hope. And the goodness of people.”

Since the inaugural ceremony in 1999, royalty, prime ministers, worldwide icons and massive stars have flocked to celebrate the winners, including King Charles III and Queen Camilla, the Prince and Princess of Wales, Diana Ross, Sir Paul McCartney, Sharon Stone, Harry Styles, Janet Jackson, David Beckham, Taylor Swift, Anthony Joshua, Sir Mo Farah and Ant and Dec..

Source link

Louis Tomlinson fans accuse his sister of ‘rolling her eyes’ at his girlfriend Zara McDermott

One Direction fans have accused Louis Tomlinson’s sister of ‘rolling her eyes’ at his girlfriend Zara McDermott on the red carpet.

While Zara and Daisy have always claimed to be close pals, eagle-eyed 1D devotees are convinced they shared an awkward moment as they chatted to an interviewer on the red carpet at the Pride of Britain awards.

Fans claimed Daisy Tomlinson appeared to roll her eyes at Zara McDermottCredit: pop drop
The unofficial sisters-in-law are extremely close – but did Louis’ fans spot secret tension? Credit: Shutterstock Editorial

Chatting to red carpet outlet Pop Drop, Zara was discussing her upcoming 30th birthday when she admitted: “I’m not really, like, a party person, and I feel like when it’s your birthday, I don’t know if anyone else gets this, but I always feel…”

As the Love Island and Strictly star appeared to be struggling to find the right word, Daisy then jumped in to finish her sentence, adding: “Pressure.”

Zara then continued: “Pressure to talk to everyone”, before Daisy then turned her head and appeared to briefly roll her eyes upwards.

The split-second moment has now been eagerly debated online, especially by some who don’t appear to be fans of Zara’s.

READ MORE ON ZARA MCDERMOTT

RIGHT DIRECTION

Zara McDermott on Louis ‘fairytale’ romance amid engagement rumours


STARRY NIGHT

Helen Flanagan, Olivia Attwood & Zara McDermott wow at Pride of Britain awards

One viewer said: “Daisy looked like she doesn’t like Zara and when Zara was talking Daisy looked p***ed off.

“I couldn’t care less if shes dating Louis she can have him but Daisy sure was giving ‘here we go again vibe’. I find it hard to listen to.”

Another wrote: “Look, Daisy is rolling her eyes at Zara’s comment.”

A third believed it happened because Daisy felt interrupted, adding: “Zara keeps talking over Daisy! Annoying!”

Zara and Louis have been dating since March last year Credit: Instagram
Zara sported a thigh-split black dress to the red carpet event this week Credit: Getty

And a fourth said: “I think Zara was just trying to yap and she contradicted herself about bday plans and Daisy just couldn’t hide her facial expressions bc I have that problem too.”

Others didn’t buy it, however, and felt that some were reading too much into the exchange.

“Idk, I don’t think she wasn’t tryna be shady,” one said.

Another defended the accusations that Zara talked over Daisy, weighing in: “If you saw the whole interview she let Daisy talk for the first half of it, then Daisy let her talk about her birthday.”

Despite the hotly debated moment, the girls walked the red carpet arm in arm and gushed about spending Christmas together.

“We’re going to have a big family Christmas this year”, said Zara.

“It’s rare that you get everyone in the same room, so it’ll be nice.”

After confirming she’s looking forward to spending it with her other half and his clan, Zara said: “I’ve had to try to figure out how to split my time between my family and Louis’ this year, it’s so difficult!”

A spokesman for the girls told The Sun: “Daisy and Zara have a lovely relationship and Daisy was delighted to attend the Pride of Britain Awards alongside her.”

Source link

Zara McDermott reveals all about ‘fairytale’ romance with Louis Tomlinson in Sun interview amid engagement rumours

THERE were plenty of skeptics when former Love Islander Zara McDermott struck up an unlikely romance with One Direction heartthrob Louis Tomlinson early last year.

But as Zara gives The Sun a rare insight into life with superstar Louis, it appears the couple have proved the naysayers wrong.

Zara McDermott has shared a rare insight into her relationship with Louis Tomlinson Credit: Alamy
The couple have been together since early 2025 Credit: Instagram

Zara and Louis were first spotted together in early March 2025, just two months after she split from partner of five years Sam Thompson.

At the time, the reality star and documentary-maker was subject to cruel trolling over the romance from Louis’ hardcore fanbase.

But sticking it out, not only is Zara seemingly stronger than ever with the musician, she’s ultra close to his famous sisters.

Walking the red carpet at last night’s Pride Of Britain Awards, Zara was arm in arm with Louis’ influencer younger sister Daisy.

“We’re going to have a big family Christmas this year, it’s rare that you get everyone in the same room, so it’ll be nice,” the duo tell me.

After confirming she’s looking forward to spending it with her other half and his clan, Zara admits: “I’ve had to try to figure out how to split my time between my family and Louis’ this year, it’s so difficult!”

Zara walked the Pride Of Britain red carpet alongside Louis’ younger sister Daisy Credit: Shutterstock Editorial
She explained how the plan is to have a ‘big family Christmas’ with Louis’ clan this year Credit: Instagram

As the pair discuss shopping for Louis – which Daisy assures is an easy task – Zara says in a rare gush: “He’s just a very happy person, he’s always happy. And he’s just always grateful.”

Despite being often seen at Louis’ California home, Zara – who noted how Louis’ siblings are her ‘sisters’ now – says the pair’s main residence is his North London home.

“It’s mostly London! I travel all over, but mostly London because that’s where all of my family and friends are.”

Zara and Louis keep their union famously private, with the pair only ever sharing a few snaps together online and rarely discussing one another.

However, she has dubbed the singer her “prince charming” – recently admitting: “I genuinely can’t even say one [irritating habit]. He’s like my Prince Charming. He’s like my fairytale.

“He is genuinely the most amazing person I’ve ever met in my life, he’s an inspiration to me in so many ways.

Zara split from boyfriend of five years Sam Thompson in late December 2024 Credit: Getty
She has now described Louis’ siblings, Daisy, Phoebe and Lottie Tomlinson, as her ‘sisters’ Credit: Instagram
Zara rose to fame on Love Island in 2018 Credit: Rex
She and Louis keep their relationship fairly private and rarely post about one another Credit: Instagram/Zara_Mcdermott

“He is the most empathetic, considerate, kind person. He will always think about every single other person before himself, and I think that is such a rare quality to find in someone.”

There are even rumours that the loved-up pair could soon announce they are engaged, but the presenter remains stubbornly tight-lipped about wedding bells.

That doesn’t mean the relationship has been without its challenges, with Zara widely trolled by Louis’ fans who, at the beginning of their relationship, accused her of “following” the popstar around.

When Zara posted snaps of herself in Italy, where Louis was performing at a sold-out concert in Milan, earlier this year – she was subjected to vile backlash.

At the time, a source told The Sun: “Zara can’t win with the trolls.

“She’s either accused of ‘following’ Louis around the world or is slated for not being a supportive enough girlfriend.

“It’s like she’s damned if you do, damned if you don’t.”

But keeping a dignified silence appears to have done the trick for Zara, who is proving to his fans that she certainly doesn’t seem to be going anywhere – and the whole Tomlinson clan are behind her.

Source link

Danny Jones hugs wife Georgia as they share cosy video from Pride Of Britain Awards after working through marriage woes

DANNY Jones shared an affectionate moment with his wife Georgia Horsley at the Pride of Britain Awards after she stood by him through their marriage woes.

The married McFly singer, 40, was caught snogging Love Island star and TV presenter Maura Higgins at the BRIT Awards afterparty in 2025.

Georgia Jones and Danny Jones looked loved-up on the Pride Of Britain Awards red carpet Credit: Getty
The couple’s outing comes a year after his snog with Maura Higgins at the 2025 BRIT Awards Credit: Getty

This led to Danny publicly apologising to Georgia after the drunken kiss – with his wife of 10 years agreeing to stand by him.

Showing they’re united, Georgia and Danny shared a clip of them posing together on the red carpet.

The pair shared a get ready with me clip with Georgia stunning in a burgundy dress and Danny opting for an all black suit.

Danny captioned the post: “Last night at Pride of Britain Awards we celebrated the courageous & extraordinary.

fam first

Danny Jones’ wife announces she is ‘pausing’ podcast to focus on family life


GRACE’S GAG

GK Barry pokes fun at Maura Higgins & Danny Jones after kiss scandal

Danny and Georgia shared a clip as they glammed ug up before the event Credit: Instagram/dannyjonesofficial
Maura is currently thousands of miles away in Los Angeles competing on DWTS Credit: Shutterstock Editorial

“In what can be a very scary world sometimes it’s so important to acknowledge the kindness & selflessness of these individuals.

“Truly inspiring stories and even more incredible & inspiring humans.

“Be kind, always.”

Meanwhile, Maura – who is currently competing on Dancing With the Stars in the US – was thousands of miles away.

On Sunday, Maura sizzled in a white PVC skintight bodysuit and corset as she attended the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in Los Angeles.

The Sun revealed how Danny and Maura, who appeared together in I’m A Celeb last year, shared a brief kiss during Universal Music’s Brit Awards.

The duo then travelled separately to the five-star Nobu Hotel for more drinks.

Last March, Danny made his emotional statement on Instagram, and showed his regret for putting his loved ones “in this situation.”

The dad-of-one, who shares son Cooper with Georgia, 38, wrote: “Hello everyone.

“Sorry it’s taken me a while to post this but I’ve taken some time out to be with those closest to me.

“I want to deeply apologise to my wife and family for putting them in this situation.

“I love them so much and we’ll continue to deal with this privately.”

Danny continued: “I love you guys, thank you for your patience, understanding and support.

“See you all soon, Danny.”

At the time, pals previously said that Danny was keen to draw a line under the scandal, which saw him holding crisis talks with Georgia, his wife of ten years.

A friend said: “Danny wants to draw a line in the sand and move on.

“He has talked with Georgia, and they just want to carry on with their lives.

“His actions were incredibly embarrassing, and he has expressed how much he regrets it.

“Now is the time to move past it and try and get back to normal.”

It came after it was claimed Georgia had issued The Voice panelist with a “final warning.”

Source link

Strictly, EastEnders and Love Island stars look ready for bed as they leave boozy awards party in taxi

CELEBRITIES attending last night’s Pride Of Britain Awards looked like they were ready for bed as they poured themselves out of the boozy after party.

Stars from big shows like Strictly Come Dancing, Love Island and EastEnders appeared to be all partied out, as they jumped into waiting cabs.

Ekin-Su Cülcüloğlu looked like she had been enjoying herself at the Pride of Britain Awards boozy after party Credit: Smart Picturres
EastEnders star Lacey Turner was ready for bed after the party Credit: James Curley

Just hours earlier they had all looked perfectly groomed as they glistened and shimmered on the red carpet at the Pride of Britain Awards.

But fast forward to the end of the night, and the stars leaving the after party at JW Marriott Grosvenor House looked like they had been enjoying the free bar.

Love Island icon Ekin-Su Culculogiu was in great spirits as she left the after party in her stunning gown.

The former Islander giggled, as she strutted out of the star-studded bash in London.

Read more Pride Of Britain

STARRY NIGHT

Helen Flanagan, Olivia Attwood & Zara McDermott wow at Pride of Britain awards


oh vorders

Carol Vorderman sparkles in figure-hugging black dress to host Pride of Britain

However, Strictly Come Dancing contestant Lacey Turner looked like she couldn’t wait to get into her PJs.

The EastEnders actress was seen heading to a waiting cab with sleepy eyes.

Christine McGuinness was spotted resting against a wall after the party Credit: Splash
But the star was later seen beaming as she headed home Credit: Smart Picturres

Fellow Strictly star Dani Dyer appeared to have been enjoying herself at the boozy bash.

The former Love Island champ left the party with a huge beam on her face as she waved out of her cab.

Katie Price‘s eldest kids Princess and Junior Andre were seen looking happy as they waved to fans in their cab.

The siblings are often spotted partying together, and it appeared they had enjoyed themselves last night.

Strictly and Love Island star Dani Dyer looked like she was ready for bed Credit: James Curley
Helen Flanagan still looked glam, although she appeared a little sleepy after her evening out Credit: Smart Picturres

Christine McGuinness was seen resting against a wall in her striking pink floral ball gown after enjoying the party.

But she later was seen beaming as she got into her taxi to head home to bed.

Despite looking a little sleepy, actress Helen Flanagan still looked glam in her shoulderless gown and long black gloves.

Strictly head judge Shirley Ballas was also spotted leaving the boozy bash and waved to onlookers as she headed home.

Prince and Junior Andre had enjoyed themselves at the VIP party Credit: Splash
Shirley Ballas waved out of cab as she left the boozy bash Credit: Smart Picturres

Hosted by Carol Vorderman and Ashley Banjo, Pride of Britain brings together royalty, world leaders, and hundreds of famous faces including music legends, sporting icons, Hollywood stars and TV favourites to celebrate the winners.

The Pride of Britain Awards 2026 will air on TV on Thursday at 8pm on ITV

Source link

Carol Vorderman tells of being ‘really poorly’ after painful diagnosis

Pride of Britain host Carol Vorderman says her recent health crisis has given her a new perspective, forcing her to focus on what truly matters.

After a year-long health crisis, and as she marks 44 years on television, Carol Vorderman wants to “deep cleanse” her life and focus on what matters. The 65-year-old Pride of Britain presenter and former Countdown star was completely floored for most of last year, with a sudden debilitating case of rheumatoid arthritis.

She couldn’t walk without crying in pain and found the experience depressing and a shock to the system. Carol says: “As you get older, health becomes one of your top priorities. And time – who you spend that time with, and what you spend that time on. Time becomes your currency, so you don’t want to waste it.

“Every single person I know of my age group, we’re all trying to get rid of stuff. You spend all your life accumulating, but you don’t want to waste time curating things you’ve accumulated. It’s a deep cleanse for old age. Being really poorly and on a lot of medication for so much time really has given me a new perspective.

“You become much more conscious of your overall health. Your priority list changes. It was a big shock to the system, and that’s why I have every sympathy for people with chronic pain. I just don’t know how they live with it. It’s just depressing.”

Carol is due to present The Daily Mirror Pride of Britain Awards, in partnership with P&O Cruises, for the 27th year – a show she has recently co-hosted with Diversity star Ashley Banjo.

The event, shown on ITV and ITVX, celebrates the nation’s unsung heroes and includes awards for Child of Courage, Outstanding Bravery, Lifetime and Young Fundraiser.

Carol says: “The first Pride of Britain was 1999, so it only occurred to me this week that I was on Countdown for 26 years, but now Pride of Britain is my long runner. On November 2, I celebrate 44 years on TV. I’m not having a party, but I am getting a BAFTA Cymru for Outstanding Achievement. In other words, still being alive!

“The reason I keep doing Pride of Britain is because it’s the best job. It’s very glam. There are lots of very glam shows, but it’s very real. I do get emotional about the show about a week before. I remember the people who have won awards and have either passed away through old age or particularly the youngsters who died. They came on because they had cancer and raised money, or whatever their story might have been, and they’re no longer with us.

“Then you also remember the people who were doing these great things 15 years ago are still doing them. I always come back to how many great people there are. The show makes you want to be better and it’s made me more of a fighter.”

Carol recalls how she had to fight when her health nosedived. She says: “I had travel vaccines for a trip to Thailand and within three days I had chronic rheumatoid arthritis. I can’t prove that they caused it. My hands doubled in size. I couldn’t walk. I literally couldn’t move anything without crying in pain.

“I was on steroids probably for about eight months, and now I’m on other medication for the rest of my life. That’s hard because I’ve always prided myself on being healthy. It was as much as I could do to look out of the window and think, ‘I hope one day I’ll be able to walk without pain again.’

“The big thing for a lot of older people is community. You’ve got to feel a part of something. I know that my mum living with us and being around the kids, living in a busy house, gave her a purpose.

“If she’d just been living by herself somewhere, she wouldn’t have lasted. And smartphones don’t help. I love keeping up to date with what people are doing on Instagram, but it’s not the same as getting people together.”

Carol also reveals that laughter is extremely important to her wellbeing. “People who laugh are very special,” she says. “I love laughing. I love laughing at myself. Most of my friends just completely take the p*** out of me all the time.

“As you get older, you realise that even people who make you laugh and want to share, there’s a kindness in it. So for me, there are people who are heroes, because they make you feel better, they make you laugh, rather than taking offence, and I think there’s something quite heroic in that. There’s something about laughter that just breaks down the barriers.”

Carol has also long been a passionate, unfiltered voice of public frustration, turning to political advocacy to expose what she calls “political corruption”. She says: “Good people also need support so that they can do even more good things. Some people have been through so much pain and grief, some of it caused by certain politicians.

“Those things make me very angry, and I suppose now I’m at an age where I no longer need to build a career. A lot of girls say to me, ‘I believe in everything that you do, Carol, but I wish I could say the things you do. I just don’t feel strong enough.’ I say, ‘Yeah, but you’re not in a position to. I am in a position to say it, so I feel that responsibility.’”

Despite the emotional weight of Pride of Britain, Carol says there is always lightness on the show. She recalls: “The one that I always remember was in 2012 when we had lots of people on the stage, because we were celebrating the London Olympics. To present the award was Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, as they were then.

“Then in my ear, the show’s boss said, ‘You’ve got to make Charles do the Mobot. Do it.’ So I talked about the wonderful Mo Farah and said, ‘Obviously sir, you will have seen this, shall we all do the Mobot?’ I collared him into it, he couldn’t stand there and say no. So he did it, what a good sport. The next day officials at Clarence House brought up that they hadn’t approved the Mobot ‘incident’ and asked who was responsible.”

For Carol, Pride of Britain is a chance to take a moment and appreciate good people. She says: “Pride of Britain gives us all an opportunity to take a breath for a couple of hours and witness these very real people who are doing very real things because they are brave, they’re determined. It’s a whole balance of life.”

*The Pride of Britain Awards will take place on 19th October, before airing on ITV and ITVX from 22nd October. Find out more about the Pride of Britain Awards 2026 HERE

Source link