Pride of Britain's a fix of goodness

Carol Vordeman is back hosting the inspiring Pride of Britain awards with Ashley Banjo. EMMELINE SAUNDERS learns what's in store

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CAROL Vorderman has hosted every Pride of Britain ceremony, yet the thrill of meeting the amazing, selfless winners never fades.

The broadcast favourite is getting ready to present the 26th year of the awards and says: “It’s just wonderful to be in the same room with all the winners.

“It lifts you. With all this terrible stuff in the news, you get to hear the stories about good people, who get drowned out otherwise.”

Carol says it's more important than ever that we celebrate these unsung heroes.

“It’s like you get that fix of goodness,” she says. “Even though you know these people aren't getting the front pages, there are so many good people in this country and it’s that big reminder of that.

“I've looked into it and there are around 15 million people who volunteer at least once a week in this country.

“I mean, 15 million. Just giving up their time. So we have to keep on being reminded about that. I think Pride of Britain, is like the mother-ship for that, as far as television is concerned.”

Countdown legend Carol, 64, will once again be joined on stage by co-host Ashley Banjo, 37, with the pair also among the judges.

The Diversity dancer and Dancing on Ice judge adds: “Carol and I meet them, we give them their awards, and we usually see them afterwards, so we're with them for their whole journey. And every one of them deserves to win.”