Nominations for the Daily Mirror Pride of Britain Awards with P&O Cruises are now open, celebrating the extraordinary achievements of everyday people. This year's ceremony will be hosted by Carol Vorderman, 65, who has presented the awards since their inception in 1999, alongside dancer Ashley Banjo, 37, who joined as co-host in 2021.
In an exclusive interview with the Mirror to mark the launch of the 28th awards, Banjo said the event is now more vital than ever. He described it as a showcase of Britain's true diversity, adding: 'If anybody wants to know what Britain is, don’t go to one particular area, or listen to one particular person... Watch Pride of Britain and you will see people from all different walks of life.'
The awards, founded by former Mirror editor Peter Willis, honour unsung heroes including children of courage, tireless fundraisers, and those who have shown outstanding bravery. Categories include the This Morning Local Hero, Emergency Services Award, Child/Teenager of Courage, and the P&O Cruises Inspiration Award.
Banjo recalled eight-year-old Florrie Bark from Corby, Northants, who won the Child of Courage award in 2024. Florrie, who has acute myeloid leukaemia and a lung transplant, has used social media to support other sick children and raise funds for charity. Banjo said: 'The light that she brings into a room is extraordinary... It’s humbling.'
The 28th edition, partnered with P&O Cruises, will take place at London's Grosvenor House in autumn and will be broadcast on ITV1 in prime time. Banjo, who was appointed an MBE in 2022, said the awards have changed him personally, calling them 'a bit of a realignment every year'. He noted that winners are humble and do not seek glory, which makes them true heroes.
