Carol Vorderman Co-Hosts Pride of Britain Awards
Carol Vorderman was among the stars on the red carpet at the 2026 Pride of Britain Awards, held at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House in London. Vorderman, who has presented the awards solo since 1999, was joined by co-host Diversity star Ashley Banjo for the event, which celebrates remarkable achievements across the UK. The 2026 ceremony marked the 27th year of the awards.
The presenter opted for a dazzling mermaid-style black gown for the occasion, as reported by RTE.ie.
Star-Studded Red Carpet
The Pride of Britain Awards saw numerous familiar faces in attendance, all honouring the nation’s heroes. Laura Whitmore, co-host of the true crime podcast Murder She Wrote with her husband Iain Stirling, also walked the red carpet. Whitmore wore a striking navy suit by HELLESSY featuring wide trousers and intricate white lace applique, styled by Emma Lane. Her husband Stirling paid tribute to his Scottish heritage in a kilt.
Other attendees included Davina McCall, who wore a two-tone gown with a sequinned top and draped skirt. The event, which has been running since 1999, recognises individuals from all walks of life who have made significant contributions to others. Award categories include Outstanding Bravery, Lifetime Achievement, and Teenager of Courage, with winners chosen by a panel of celebrities.
A Celebration of Heroism
Andy Burnham, attending the event, praised the Daily Mirror awards, stating, “Forget celebrities, the real stars were on the stage.” He highlighted the extraordinary winners as “down to earth, full of humour” and emphasised that “The best bit of Britain is the people.”
The event also recognised the work of Andy’s Man Club, a men’s suicide prevention charity. Founders Elaine Roberts and Luke Ambler received a Special Recognition award. Burnham expressed his strong support for the charity, describing it as “critical infrastructure in any community.” The charity, which started with nine men in Halifax, now has over 360 community groups across England, Scotland, and Wales, alongside online sessions.
Pioneering heart surgeon Asif Hasan was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement award for his 36 years of saving sick children, having performed over 400 transplants. Child of Courage winner Kirsty Waugh, 12, who has raised nearly £250,000 for research after being diagnosed with a brain tumour, also attended.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who co-hosted the Pride of Britain Awards 2026 with Carol Vorderman? Ashley Banjo, from Diversity, co-hosted the event with Carol Vorderman.
- How long has Carol Vorderman been presenting the Pride of Britain Awards? Carol Vorderman has presented the awards solo since 1999. The 2026 event was her 27th year associated with the awards.
- What did Carol Vorderman wear to the awards? According to RTE.ie, Vorderman dazzled in a mermaid-style black gown.
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