I just said I couldn't make it and I am now "in the pile of applications". Oh well.
they just expect you to drop everything eh? I applied years ago for the Weakest Link (yes, I know I would have been it). Didn't hear anything and presumed my application had been relegated to the bin. Then one day, out of the blue, about 2 years after I sent my application in, I got a phone call at work from the BBC.
BBC "We'd like you to come to an audition tomorrow"
Me "what time?"
BBC "11am"
Me "sorry, I won't be able to make it, I have to work"
BBC "pardon? can't you get time off?"
etc etc. I said that I would have attended had I had a bit more notice, and they said they'd put my application back in the pile - never heard from them again.
I did audition for Countdown twice though - they were lovely and gave me lots of notice

Didn't get on though
