The annual Oldie of the Year Awards took place on 20th November 2024 at the prestigious National Liberal Club in London, with a star-studded gathering celebrating public figures who have made lasting contributions to British life. The ceremony, hosted by Gyles Brandreth, marked another memorable occasion for The Oldie magazine, which has been honouring exceptional individuals for the last 32 years.
The event began with a tea and coffee reception at 11.30am, followed by the awards presentation at 12pm. The atmosphere was lively, with guests including Princess Michael of Kent, Mike Leigh, Bill Wyman, and Zandra Rhodes among the attendees. The awards recognise individuals who, in the words of the organisers, still have “enough snap left in their celery” to inspire others, and previous winners have included figures like Barry Humphries, HM Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, and David Hockney.
This year’s ceremony saw the return of Gyles Brandreth as chair of the judges, a position he has held for the last seven years. The judging panel also included notable names such as Harry Mount, Craig Brown, Sir Tim Rice, and Dame Maureen Lipman. Together, they chose six winners whose contributions have left an indelible mark on society.
Last year’s winner, Angela Rippon, was celebrated for her continued contributions to television and public life. As guests gathered in anticipation of the announcement of the 2024 winners, the big question was: who would take the coveted title this year?
The event’s atmosphere was warm and filled with camaraderie, with familiar faces such as John Humphrys, Dame Prue Leith, Jacqueline Wilson, and Jilly Cooper gracing the room. Also in attendance were Lord Bishop Harries, Helen Lederer, and David Mellor, all of whom added to the occasion’s charm. Princess Michael of Kent was one of the prominent figures present, underscoring the event’s significance within British society.
Among the guests, Mark Ellen and Mary Killen represented the judging panel, as well as the publisher of The Oldie, James Pembroke, who has been instrumental in the awards’ continued success. The ceremony celebrated not just the achievements of the winners, but also the enduring spirit of those who continue to make meaningful contributions to the public good well into their later years.
The Oldie magazine’s awards have always been more than just about honouring public figures—they also represent the magazine’s ethos of celebrating age and the wisdom that comes with it. The awards have, over the years, become a significant event for those who still have a vital role in the public sphere, serving as a reminder that age is no barrier to continued impact and inspiration.
As the winners were announced, the atmosphere was filled with applause and admiration for the exceptional individuals who have shown that there is no limit to what can be achieved, regardless of age.