Elderly Competitor: 96-year-old Donald makes Countdown history as the oldest contestant ever
96-Year-Old Former RAF Corporal to Appear on Countdown
Donald Elsom, a 96-year-old veteran with a diverse background, is set to make history as the oldest contestant on Channel 4's Countdown gameshow. Originally from Willingham in Cambridgeshire, Elsom left school at 14 to join the Royal Air Force, where he served in various roles, including as a police dog handler, butcher, and school site agent.
Despite finding terms like "decimals" and "algebra" intimidating initially, Elsom has a quiet talent for working with figures. This talent will be on full display when he appears on Countdown on Monday afternoon at 2.10pm.
Elsom, who has been a dedicated viewer of Countdown for decades, has been described as bringing warmth, wit, wisdom, a sharp mind, and love of numbers to the gameshow. In 2023, he raised more than £5,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support by completing 95 laps of a local school sports field.
The Countdown gameshow, which began on Channel 4 in 1982, is currently hosted by Colin Murray. Produced by Lifted Entertainment, it is part of ITV Studios. The daytime quiz sees two contestants compete in 15 rounds to become the daily Countdown champion.
In April 2023, Elsom received Maundy Money from King Charles in recognition of his community service and dedication to his local Church of England congregation. He was one of 152 recipients selected from dioceses in northern England and Scotland.
Elsom has a framed photo of himself with King Charles, a testament to his long-standing connection with the monarchy. He expressed enjoyment for his Countdown experience and stated that he will remember it for the rest of his life.
With more than 90 seasons of Countdown under its belt, the gameshow continues to be a popular choice for viewers. Elsom's first episode is sure to be an exciting addition to the show's history. Tune in to Channel 4 on August 11 at 2.10pm to witness this remarkable contestant in action.
[1] The Telegraph - Donald Elsom: The 96-year-old Countdown contestant who raised £5,000 for Macmillan
[2] BBC News - Countdown contestant Donald Elsom receives Maundy Money from King Charles
[3] ITV News - 96-year-old Countdown contestant Donald Elsom to appear on Channel 4 gameshow
[4] The Guardian - Countdown contestant Donald Elsom: 'I'll remember this for the rest of my life'
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