Prince Charles, Cheryl Cole, David Beckham for Pride of Britain Awards

Prince Charles, Cheryl Cole and David Beckham will honour Britain’s unsung heroes in The Daily Mirror’s Pride of Britain Awards, it has been announced. The annual ceremony, hosted by Carol Vorderman, pays tribute to ordinary people, as chosen by a panel formed of well-known figures and celebrities.

“It’s always such a great pleasure hosting Pride of Britain. For me, it is the only awards show on TV that really matters because the winners are real people who could not be more deserving,” the presenter said.

“Over the past decade, there have been so many heart-warming, inspiring stories of people who have contributed so much to this country. It’s a chance for us to celebrate Britain at its best and I’m not surprised it has become the biggest national event of its kind.”

Last week, Girls Aloud star Cheryl Cole flew to Afghanistan to spend several days with the armed forces located in Camp Bastion. Footage of her trip, which saw her take part in a mock gun battle, will be shown during the show, broadcast on ITV.

Prince Charles will also be shown surprising one emotional winner, whom he ends up comforting, while Beckham makes a young girl’s dream come true. Top Gear’s Richard Hammond also surprises another young winner by dropping in via helicopter.

“The Pride of Britain Awards are, I believe, a unique way to celebrate the achievements of some truly remarkable people, and hear something of their inspiring and humbling stories,” Prince Charles said.

“These marvellous awards remind all of us that, despite what one might think, throughout this country there are extraordinary people living selfless lives, showing unbelievable courage and caring for their families, neighbours and communities.”

Among the winners, chosen by the panel including Victoria Cross winner Johnson Beharry, Daybreak’s Christine Bleakley and Chief Nurse Dame Christine Beasley, are a 6-year-old cancer survivor who has raised £20,000 for other children he met on his ward, and a grandmother who foiled an armed robbery when she attacked the thieves with her handbag.

David Beckham said of his involvement: “I’m always delighted to take part in the Pride of Britain Awards. The winners are always amazing, particularly the little children. I think the bravery and courage they show is an example to us all.”

The Daily Mirror’s Pride of Britain Awards 2011 will be shown on ITV1 from 8pm on October 5.

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