A former RAF corporal who left school at the age of 14 has become the oldest-ever contestant to appear on Countdown.
After being a viewer of the show for more than a decade, Donald Elsom from Stanley in County Durham will appear on the Channel 4 gameshow this Monday afternoon.
Originally from Willingham in Cambridgeshire, he has been described by Channel 4 as bringing warmth, wit, and wisdom to the long-running programme, along with a sharp mind and love of numbers.
96-year-old former RAF corporal becomes oldest-ever Countdown contestant
Talking about his time on Countdown, the 96-year-old said: “I enjoyed everything about the day, the photo will be framed and will have a place next to the photo of me with King Charles.
“It was a lovely experience I will remember for the rest of my life.”
Despite leaving school at the age of 14 and finding terms like “decimals” and “algebra” intimidating, he is said to have a quiet talent for working with figures nowadays.
Over his long life, he has had a varied career in the Royal Air Force, as a police dog handler, butcher, and school site agent.
He has also done a lot of work for charity, raising more than £5000 for Macmillan Cancer Support in 2023 when he completed 95 laps of a local school sports field.
In April, he received Maundy Money from the King in recognition of his community work and dedication to his local church.
He was one of 152 recipients who were selected from dioceses in Northern England and Scotland.
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When did Countdown start and what happens in the show?
The gameshow started on Channel 4 all the way back in 1982 and is currently hosted by Colin Murray.
It sees two contestants compete in 15 rounds to become the daily Countdown champion.
Produced by Lifted Entertainment, part of ITV Studios, there have been more than 90 seasons.
Fans will be able to watch Mr Elsom’s first episode on Monday, August 11 at 2:10pm.
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