Ant and Dec lose out at NTAs again—but to the most worthy opponent

The most jaw-dropping story to come out of the National Television Awards last time round was that television duo Ant and Dec had failed for the first time in 24 years to win the coveted Best Presenter Award – and misfortune has struck the I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! hosts yet again.

Fortunately, the Geordie pair could not have possibly lost out to a more treasured rival – in this case a man who has graced British television screens since the 1950s, having become a national institution in the meantime, and even being referred to by some as a secular saint.

The announcement caused the audience to cheer and clap (Getty)

The presenter who beat Ant and Dec to the accolade was of course naturalist, broadcaster and author Sir David Attenborough.

Upon receiving news of Sir David’s win, the NTA crowd filled the hall with clapping and cheers, with many jumping to their feet in appreciation.

Unable to appear in person, a statement from Sir David was read out by colleague Mark Brownlow who took to the stage to deliver his words.

"Thank you all for the compliment," he said, pointing to the importance of thinking of the planet from the big picture to the "small differences" everyone can make to their immediate homes and neighbourhoods which together can all add up to "significant" positive change.

"Humanity has always needed the natural world," Sir David said, "Now the natural world needs us too".

Sir David turned 100 this year

Sir David Attenborough turned 100 in May and at the time he shared the following message via the BBC:

"I had rather thought that I would celebrate my 100th birthday quietly, but it seems that many of you have had other ideas. I’ve been completely overwhelmed by birthday greetings from preschool groups to care home residents and countless individuals and families of all ages.

"I simply can’t reply to each of you all separately, but I would like to thank you all most sincerely for your kind messages, and wish those of you who have planned your own local events tomorrow, have a very happy day."