In today’s cult of youth, would an 81-year old ever be voted as their country’s greatest living person, followed by a woman of 70-ish and another of 80? Not to mention a 50-ish woman voted as best in films?

Of course, the winner is a very special person.

The Queen at her Coronation in 1953

The British public has selected the Queen as “the Greatest Living Briton 2007″. The ITV show was broadcast live and viewers asked to vote for their choice. The awards ceremony was to celebrate British achievement.

The Queen finished top of a list of other famous — but perhaps less worthy — Britons, including Paul McCartney (60-ish), Julie Andrews (70-ish), Margaret Thatcher (80-ish) and pop singer Robbie Williams (just ish).

Her Majesty wasn’t present to receive her accolade, but her son Prince Edward paid tribute via a video transmission.

Coincidentally, Helen Mirren (50-ish), who claimed an Oscar earlier this year for her portrayal of the Queen in the film of the same name, took the top prize for The Greatest Briton in Film.

The Monarch, who has been on the Throne for 55 years showed a clean pair of heels to the celebrity striplings who might have thought they stood a chance. It was a very good night for golden agers.