Countdown is one of the UK’s most beloved and prestigious quiz shows, but actually appearing on the Channel 4 programme sounds like quite the conundrum in itself. Letters and numbers are just part of everyday life for most of us, but for those who decide to apply for Countdown, they quickly become all-consuming. Having run since 1982 and with over 7,000 episodes having broadcast so far, it’s clear it still has a huge draw for many.