A 96-year-old former RAF corporal who left school when he was 14 has become the oldest contestant in Countdown history.

Donald Elsom, of Stanley, County Durham, will appear on the Channel 4 gameshow on Monday afternoon (11 August) after being a dedicated viewer for decades.

Originally from Willingham in Cambridgeshire, Mr Elsom has been described by the broadcaster as bringing warmth, wit, and wisdom to the long-running show, along with a sharp mind and love of numbers.

Mr Elsom said: “I enjoyed everything about the day, the photo will be framed and 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 14 and initially finding terms like “decimals” and “algebra” intimidating, Mr Elsom is

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