Gethin said "I rely on my ears for my work and think they are amazing things. I’m really chuffed to win this accolade and it's just a shame my success wasn't replicated on the dance floor in the semi-finals this week. I encourage everyone to take care of their lug-holes even if yours aren’t award-winning!”

The People's Ear of the Year 2007 was won by Esther Foreman 29 of London (pictured here). Television's body language expert Tracey Cox picked Esther out of the online entries, and said "Whether you like to nibble on them, or whisper sweet nothings to them, ears are sensuous things and should be well cared for and celebrated!”

The awards were launched in October by Miss England as part of the Breaking the Sound Barrier campaign. Emma Harrison (RNID’s Head of Campaigns) said: “We organise these awards because there are millions of people who don’t appreciate the problems and discrimination that deaf and hard of hearing people face everyday. In particular, there are 4 million people who could benefit from a hearing aid but don’t wear one because they are too embarrassed. If you have difficulty picking things up call RNID’s quick and confidential telephone hearing check on 0845 600 5555.”

See all the entries.