Countdown welcomes its oldest ever contestant at age 96

Countdown makes history as it welcomes its oldest ever contestant — 96-year-old Donald Elsom from Stanley, County Durham. 

Originally from Willingham, Cambridgeshire, Donald brings warmth, wit and wisdom to the show, impressing both the crew and fellow contestants with his sharp mind and lifelong love of numbers. Despite leaving school at 14 and initially finding terms like "decimals" and "algebra" intimidating, Donald has always had a quiet talent for working with figures — one that’s grown stronger with time. 

His varied career has included roles in the Royal Air Force (serving as Corporal Donald Elsom), police dog handler, butcher, and school site agent. But Donald’s real strength lies in his spirit. From spending time in the jungle to trying to photograph black bears in Canada, his adventurous nature shines through. 

A dedicated Countdown viewer for decades, Donald even watches the show while using his exercise bike. In 2023, he completed 95 laps of a local school sports field raising over £5,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support and in 2025, Donald received Maundy Money from King Charles III, recognising his community service and dedication to his local Church of England congregation. 

Donald is a keen reader of Richard Osman novels, enjoys the music of Vera Lynn (with White Cliffs of Dover a firm favourite), and holds Where No Vultures Fly as his most treasured book for its message about protecting African wildlife. 

Commenting about his appearance on the Channel 4 quiz, Donald 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" 

Countdown is produced by Lifted Entertainment, part of ITV Studios.