England legend Frank Lampard joked the Pride of Britain awards was like an 'anniversary night out'.
The Everton manager met his wife, TV presenter Christine Bleakley, at the awards 13 years ago and the happy couple went on to tie the knot in 2015.
Frank, who shares two children with the Loose Women star, told the Mirror earlier this evening: "It is always a great evening for us for that reason, but this is always a very special day.
"Obviously that does give it something extra but it is just so important to be a part of that recognition for the winners."
He added: "It is like our anniversary night out."
Newcastle Utd and England star Kieran Trippier, and his wife Charlotte, were enjoying their first Pride of Britain.
He told the Mirror: "What a privilege it is to be here, be part of it. It is a real honour, and we are absolutely delighted.
"They are great people who have done such special things."
Athlete Eilish McColgan, 31, flew in from Tallinn in Estonia and said: "We wanted to be part of this celebration of the greatest people."
TV presenter Ore Oduba, with his wife Portia, joked: "The only reason we missed last year was because Portia was pregnant with our second child Genie.
"It is something amazing, a celebration of extraordinary people." TV judge Rob Rinder, at the ceremony with his mum Angela Cohen, said the awards were a 'ray of light' at a time of darkness.
"It shows that you don't have to go too far from the front door to find people who are doing good things for others," he said.
Actress Sue Johnston added: "It just makes you feel so much better about life. And that is so important right now."
Birds of a Feather star Linda Robson, 64, fresh from writing her memoir, has been to every single awards night.
"I love it when the invitation drops through the door," she said.
"It is so humbling, moving, I always think 'Thank goodness I have been invited again."
Boxing legend Frank Bruno "would not miss it for the world". He added: "It reminds you of the special things that people do. This night always brings that home to you."
The 1992 Olympic 400m hurdle champion Sally Gunnell, 56, attended with her son Marley Bigg, 18.
"I think it reminds you what life is all about," she said. Marley, in the midst of his A level studies, added: "I have never seen so many famous people in one place."
The Pride of Britain awards returns for yet another year to celebrate the nation's everyday heroes and their bravery.
The annual awards, which have taken place since 1999 in association with The Prince’s Trust, is considered one of the most heartwarming and emotional nights of the year.
Every year, several well-known faces from celebrities, politicians and sports icons come together to celebrate the bravery and selflessness of the winners.
Carol Vorderman and Ashley Banjo have returned to co-host the star-studded event at London’s Grosvenor House.
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