The thin Immortalised Days end of the by before the wedge McCartney Doosra

8 10 12 July 2009 Number 5

A family at war… Patrick’s tale of danger, death and glory Page 6

With highlights from Ariel The Pension deficit: send in your views and questions See page 3 News The day we went to Windsor

PROSPERO July 2009

Prospero is provided free to retired BBC employees. It can also be sent to spouses or dependants who want to keep By Malcolm Garrett-Eynon The Routemasters are owned by four bus constantly in touch, taking the buses out for A summer outing was held recently for a enthusiasts best known on Radio 2 – but weddings and other outings on average twice in touch with the BBC. It group of TV Presentation staff spanning they have all worked for TV Pres over the a week. includes news about former a full 50 years. Some 60 former and years. Ken Bruce, Alan Dedicoat, Steve The buses themselves thrive on it; 45 years current announcers, network directors, trails Madden and Charles Nove bought their first old they may be, with literally millions of colleagues, pension issues, producers and other transmission staff had a bus some four years ago, just for fun. Now miles on the clock, but the Routemasters and developments at the day out on the two splendid Routemaster they have a private hire business, called were built to last. buses that are often talked about on the ThisBus.com. The fifth partner in the Charles, Steve and Ken also hold the bus BBC. Prospero includes Wogan show. business is David Sheppard who worked driver’s PCV licence and drive when their This special event was open to all until recently at BBC Radio Berkshire, but busy lives allow. classified advertisements. To who joined TV Pres before the advent of now has moved to BBC Radio Devon. On the day of the reunion, the buses made advertise in Prospero or the computerised transmission. Many have now The idea for the outing came about in their first pick-up at London’s Broadcasting retired or moved to other jobs, while others January, at the funeral of former television House, where they also took part in a BBC Staff magazine, Ariel, are still in their posts, working for Red Bee announcer Andy Cartledge. Andy’s death photoshoot for the Wogan TOGS’ calendar. Media which took over the TV ‘playout’ role just before Christmas was completely unex - Then after a sprint along the A40 they see page 11. in 2005. pected. He was 67 years old. His colleagues swept majestically through the main gates of Senior member on the day was Bruce decided that a reunion was long overdue, Television Centre where more climbed Goddard, former Presentation Editor, who and a few days later, current announcer aboard, before setting off for the picturesque Subscription information for joined the department a full 50 years ago. Matthew Jackson and myself [former riverside settings of Runnymede and As he travelled on the bus in June 2009, he continuity voice] put the wheels in motion. Windsor – where some enjoyed a delicious Ariel is on page 12 explained that in June 1959 he had been on I had no problem contacting the bus cream tea and others headed for the his initial training course at Lime Grove. owners; as their most regular driver I’m nearest pub! Design reunion Children’s pioneer Hancock restored The 29th annual reunion lunch for ex- Patrick Dowling, the former BBC Six lost episodes of Hancock’s Half Hour have members of BBC television Design and producer/director whose credits been restored to the BBC archives after the Scenic Services Group, spouses, partners included Vision On and The Adventure Hancock Appreciation Society approached and friends will take place at noon on Game , has died in Australia, aged 89. BBC Audiobooks with a recently discovered Friday, October 2 at Ealing Golf Club, He joined the BBC in 1955. rising to collection of home-recorded audiotapes. Greenford, Middx. Contact Hilary Worrall become a senior producer in children’s. Two, The Flight of the Red Shadow and The (020 8677 3067) for information. Wrong Man, will be published in August. Editorial contributions CROSPERO 140 1 2 Devised and compiled by Jim Palm • • 3 4 Write to Robin Reynolds Complete the word square using the clues; these apply only to • • The Editor, Prospero words running across. Then take these words in numerical order 5 6 BBC Pension & Benefits Centre and extract the letters indicated by a dot. If your answers are correct, these letters will spell out the names of two BBC • • Broadcasting House performers of yesteryear. 7 8 Cardiff, CF5 2YQ Please send your answers in an envelope marked Crospero to The • • Editor, Prospero, BBC Pension & Benefits Centre, Broadcasting 9 Tel: 020 7765 1414 House, Cardiff CF5 2YQ by July 16. 10 [email protected] • • Clues: 1. Seaweeds (5); 2. Decrepit (3); 3. e.g. Leamington (3); 4. 11 12 e.g. Ruislip (4); 5. Bouquet (5); 6. Southern river (3); 7. Policeman of Please make sure that any digital • • the Raj (5); 8. Turkish weight (3); 9. Container (3); 10. Large ante - 13 14 pictures you send are scanned lope (3); 11. Gesture (4); 12. Architectural genius (4); 13. Pater (3); 14. Storage device (3); 15. Place for workouts (3); 16. Underneath • • at 250 dpi (5); 17. Garland (3); 18. Sweeper (5); 19. Beer mug (4); 20. 15 16 Design & production editor: Ann Ramsbottom Obsolete Greek letter (3); 21. Asian coin (3); 22. Volatile liquid (5). • • 17 18 Solution to Crospero No. 139: Fete; Beast; Prose; Pas; Ion; Defer; Act; Hew; New; End; Autocross; Nor; Bat; Men; Dor; Riven; • • Mixed Sources Did; Lie; Iliad; Asked; Else. The classic serial was Tess of the 19 20 Product group from well-managed forests, controlled sources and recy - Durbervilles • • cled wood or fiber 21 22 WWW.fsc.org Cert no. SA-COC-1468 The winner of Crospero 139 is Ms Mary Winstanley of Wescliff on c 1996 Forest Stewardship Council Sea Essex. • •

2 • • July • 2009 News Deficit confirmed by interim valuation and Annual Report BBC to back the scheme with assets

The gloomy picture of the state of the fund, painted by pensioner-elected Trustee nominations trustee Geoff Jones in the May issue of Your questions answered Geoff Jones’s term of office as pensioner- Prospero, is underlined in the elected trustee ends in December – and Scheme’s recent communication to The next issue will include an interview nominations to fill the vacancy are being sought. retired staff. with Jeremy Peat, Chairman of the BBC Nominees – who can nominate themselves – The BBC Pension Scheme’s 2009 Pension Trust. must be resident in the UK, and must be former Summary Report includes figures from email your questions/opinions contributors to the BBC Pension Scheme. the Annual Report and the findings of to: [email protected] or The office has a term of four years, and last year’s interim valuation. write to: carries an honorarium of £6,000 pa. It The interim valuation confirms that at The Editor, Prospero involves some 15 days work per year, April 1 last year the scheme was in BBC Pension & Benefits Centre, preparing for and attending meetings in deficit to the tune of £470million – but Broadcasting House, Cardiff CF5 2YQ London, plus extra time for travel. as BBC Pension Trust Chair Jeremy Trustees receive training and support to help Peat acknowledges, the fortunes of them carry out their duties. They are expected pension funds everywhere have trustees are discussing the position • These are unprecedented times and to apply ‘common sense, personal experience plunged since then. with the BBC, which has agreed to set the scheme, like many other pension and integrity to the care of other people’s The Annual Report shows that the aside additional funds to meet schemes, has not been immune from pension and money’, and requirements include market value of the fund has fallen by increased contributions, in the the turbulence that has affected an ability to understand complex issues. £1.6billion since April 1 2008. expectation that these will be required markets around the world For more information contact the secretary In his communication, Pension Trust in the future. • The Trustees are monitoring the to the trustees, Sandra Phillips, via the chairman Jeremy Peat takes cheer ‘Consideration is also being given to position closely so they can respond Pension Service Line 029 2032 2811 or visit from the fact that the fund is ‘cash other means of supporting the scheme to developments promptly the scheme’s website bbc.co.uk/mypension. positive’ – which means it doesn’t have e.g. providing security over assets.’ • They recognise that the scheme’s You can request a nomination form from Ruth to sell equities (e.g. shares) at Quite what those assets will be is not investments are long term in nature Dunlop, Electoral Reform Services, 33 depressed prices in order to pay known – but the model adopted • Investment strategy has been Clarendon Road, London N8 0NW – call 020 pensions – and he reports that the elsewhere has seen parent companies reviewed during the year and efforts 8365 8909. BBC remains firmly behind the signing over buildings and made to reduce risks (e.g. by Nominations (proposed and seconded by two scheme. corresponding rental income to bolster reducing holdings in equities) former contributing members) must reach ‘I know many of you may find this schemes through the current trough. • The BBC’s covenant and support for Electoral Reform Services by 5pm Friday July 24. worrying,’ he writes. ‘However, the The chairman’s message is that: the scheme remains strong. Digital switchover: Elderly BBC PENSIONERS’ ASSOCIATION a strong association for a safe pension urged to ask for help BBCPA has been working for over 20 years to protect and safeguard your BBC Pension Elderly viewers, and those who come into of mailing over a million eligible people.’ Why not join us? contact with them are being urged to ask for Now the scheme is doing more to help help ahead of the digital switchover. carers ensure that the people in their charge Your support is vital to ensure our voice is heard. Chief executive Peter White says the BBC don’t miss out. Just fill in the form below or visit our web site: run Switchover Help Scheme writes to elderly ‘We understand how important it is to viewers up to three times before analogue reassure older and disabled people about www.bbcpa.org.uk transmitters in their area are switched off, but security in their homes. We therefore offer Individual Annual Subscription £10.00 many still overlook the fact that they can get fixed appointment times so that carers, friends Joint Annual Subscription £15.00 assistance. or relatives can accompany the eligible person Life Membership (over 80) £50.00 Since spring two transmitter groups have and we can also provide a chaperone upon switched within the ITV West Country request. Help Scheme installers are CRB I would like to make a donation £ region and more switches are imminent. checked, carry ID cards and wear recognisable From July 8 West Cornwall and the Scillies uniforms.’ will be affected, and switchover will begin in In addition the scheme has produced a Title (Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms) Pension Number Plymouth, parts of Devon and east Cornwall leaflet for carers following feedback suggesting on August 12. that some people find digital equipment First Name Surname ‘The scheme has so far helped tens of thou - choices confusing. There is also a ‘picture- sands of eligible people to switch to digital,’ book’ explanation of the scheme for people Address says Peter. ‘We have just passed the milestone suffering from dementia.

Museum appeal to Good Life veterans Postcode Date of birth Tel Number e-mail This Autumn the Garden Museum in 1970s sitcom and we are keen to borrow London is planning a ‘Good Life’ exhibi - artefacts related to the programme, and to tion, and is asking for help from former growing your own more generally.’ BBC staff. Curator Mary Guyatt says the If you think you can help, contact Mary theme is ‘growing your own’, past and at [email protected]. You can present. ‘We would be very interested in find out more about the museum at BBCPA is an independent organisation which operates talking to people who worked on the http://www.compulink.co.uk/~museumgh/ to support the interests of BBC Pensioners July • 2009 • •3 Memories Contacts Visiting Scheme If you would like a visit or information on how to become a volunteer visitor, please A ring 0845 712 5529. You will be charged only as a local call. Queries For benefit and pension payroll queries, call the Service Line on 029 2032 2811. Prospero walk To add, or delete a name from the distribution list ring the service line (number above). Prospero is provided free of charge to retired BBC employees. On request, we will also send it to spouses or dependants who want to keep in touch with the BBC. Prospero is also available on audio tape for those with sight impairment. along To register please ring the Service Line on 029 2032 2811 BBC Club The BBC Club in London has a retired category membership costing £24 a year for members; and £36 a year for family membership. Pre-1997 life members are ye not affected. Regional clubs may have different arrangements. Please call BBC Club London administration office on 020 8752 66 66 or email [email protected]. Benevolent Fund This is funded by voluntary contributions olde from the BBC and its purpose is to protect the welfare of staff, pensioners and their families. Grants are made at the discretion of the trustees. They may provide assis - tance in cases of unforeseen financial hardship, for which help from other West Wall Bastion – part sources is not available. of the Wall surviving above wall ground. Prospero Society Prospero Society is the only section of n the face of it, BBC its credibility in a matter of months. the BBC Club run by and for retired BBC complaints, local history Ed Harris has turned his energies to the Enter Robert Peston. For just as he staff and their spouses. Its aims are to Oand Robert Peston don’t mediaeval City of London – and the had anticipated the credit crunch, so enable BBC pensioners to meet on a have an obvious association. did I pre-empt that ever-changing social basis for theatre visits, luncheons, Unless, that is, you are looking bricks and mortar that once contained it landscape. coach outings etc. Prospero is supported for a tenuous broadcasting link ‘Always consider the wider persp- by BBC Club funds so as to make events with which to impress the ectives’, was the watchword of my affordable. Editor of Prospero . I’ve always BBC accountability days. Following The only conditions (apart from paying a had a passion for history and that cautionary note, I determined small annual subscription) are that you found it invaluable when field - not to offer the names of banks and must be a BBC pensioner and a member ing complaints about the BBC businesses en route because of the of the BBC Club. Write for an application and its output. Watching Points impermanence of the City of London form to: Graham Snaith, 67 Newberries of View nothing much is new, and its institutions over time. Indeed, Avenue, Radlett, Herts. WD7 7EL, and so it is with all history. the mighty Merrill Lynch, the bank telephone: 01923 855177 Unless sanitary ramblings or that grants entry to an especially mobile: 07736 169612 email: a study of cohort persistence fine piece of London Wall, has [email protected] and mobility floats your boat, gone into turmoil. The lack of cus - the search for an original tomers in a normally buzzing City BBC products historical theme can be a nightclub meant grabbing an unint- BBC retired staff are entitled to a 30% nightmare. Such was the case errupted picture of its stretch of Wall discount off the RRP of most products on taking a Masters degree in was a breeze. And no sooner was the in the BBC TV Centre shop. There is a local history on leaving the Departure Bar4 – part of the Wall book in its final stages of production postage charge of £2.95 per order BBC, as you do. contained in a City nightclub than Blackfriars station closed until (not per item). Pensioners must quote Looking out of my window late 2011 to provide for a new their BBC pension number when one day towards Twickenham rugby ground new departure from the few incomplete upgraded station. ordering. Contact: BBC Shop, looming large above the trees on the far guides to London Wall that have been As the bottom has fallen out of the economy, Audience Foyer, Television Centre, horizon, I wondered how it had got there written in the past that all start at the Tower so the City has changed down a gear or ten. Wood Lane, London W12 7RJ. Tel and who thought to build it in such an and peter out after Newgate. Allowing access to those parts of the Wall less 020 8225 8230. unlikely place. That idle thought led to my As well as boasting much of the City’s well known has perhaps not been a priority for Email [email protected]. dissertation and eventually the publication quirky meanders and secret passages, the its guardians. Permission to enter one location Other ways to order (quoting your pen - of my first ‘proper’ book. start from Blackfriars is a dramatic affair. I have dubbed ‘The Secret Chamber’ took sion number when ordering): This latest venture comes courtesy of While there is little to see of the City Wall in three months. I have been asked by the City By phone: 08700 777 001 8.30am- author, journalist and broadcaster, Hunter the physical sense until after Ludgate, so Fathers not to divulge its whereabouts, but 6pm weekdays. By post: BBC Shop, PO Davies, who back in 1974 spent a year much of London history is covered in this what I can say is that it is an especially filthy Box 308, Sittingbourne, Kent ME9 8LW. tracking Hadrian’s Wall across the neck of rich corner and what lies underfoot is just pit sunk deep below the basement of a Email: [email protected]. England from Wallsend, near Newcastle, to as potent as the physical remains to be sensitive facility close to Tower Hill, and that it Or visit BBC Shops in Eastbourne, the Solway. The result was the highly marvelled at later. Like any good production, is said to host the supernatural. Brighton, Leicester, Birmingham or successful book A Walk Along the Wall . Today the route shifts seamlessly from the prologue Indeed, on closer inspection my camera Liverpool. UK postage £2.45 for there are hundreds of books on the subject, to the main body of the work, saving the best has captured ghostly balls of light, known to telephone, post and email orders. but not a single one written about the until last as we return to the Thames and the psychics as ‘spirit orbs’. An expert tells me Overseas: £4.50 for one item and £2 for second largest construction project in grand finale, the Tower of London. that these apparitions are nothing more than each additional product for telephone, Roman Britain, London Wall. Walking London Wall is a book of two particles of dust too close to the lens, an post and email orders. So it was in January 2008 that I began to unequal parts, designed for both the illusion. put that matter right, swapping the rugged armchair rambler and the field explorer. But BBC PA windswept landscape of the north of the City of London, as anyone who knows it • Walking London Wall is published by The For details of how to join the Pensioners’ England for the slick, urbane setting of the can testify, is an ever-evolving organism, History Press. ISBN 978 07524 4846 6. Association, see panel on page 3. City of London. The three mile walk from constantly reinventing itself, so much so that Before retiring, Ed Harris was manager, Blackfriars to the Tower of London is itself a any contemporary guide to it loses some of Publicity & Briefing, BBC Information 4 • • July • 2009 Letters This issue … Giving via payroll; ‘normal’ hearing loss; studio flooring; and supporting the Resistance Ante-natal claim to broadcasting fame I was very interested to read your article in Prospero about schools radio. Charles Armour and Geoff Sherlock are names I Chapter and verse on that crystal set know – my father, Arthur Vialls, worked with both of them in schools radio. I write in response to your letter from to. It was partly financed by the while after this as a mark of prestige. My father is now dead, and my mother Paul Brodie (An echo of early radio, companies, partly by the broadcast Richard Davis has just gone into an old people’s home. As June issue). licence fee, and partly by a royalty Similar point also made by Bob Taylor part of clearing out their house I have found May I recommend the excellent book paid on the sale of radio receivers. and M.G. Bendall a substantial amount of material from the Radio! Radio by Jonathan Hill, from The BBC logo indicated that the set schools science radio series my father which most of this information is taken. so marked had been made I have a Gecophone produced, Discovery . In particular, as well as Paul’s father’s crystal set would in Britain by one of the crystal detector set no.1 numerous leaflets and pamphlets we also appear to be the one shown on page companies who were (left) of about the same have three boxes of reel to reel tapes which 71, which Hill describes as follows: members of the BBC, that vintage as the set we believe are some of the programmes ‘Edison Bell Type B, by Edison Bell Ltd. the royalty had been paid, owned by Paul Brodie. It themselves. I have been wondering what I 1923. BBC/PMG stamp, GPO Reg. No. and also that it had been also has BBC written on should do with this material – any thoughts 615. Crystal set for headphone use, tested and type-approved it, also the words ‘Type would be gratefully received. double glass-enclosed cat’s by the Post Office, who approved by Post I don’t think I have any claim to fame whisker/galena detector with crystal gave each model a Master General’ and where schools radio is concerned, but I selection switch, plug-in coils for various registration number. regd. No. 102. It believe my younger brother, Richard, can wave ranges, black ebonite control In theory, only sets suggests to me that the claim to be the person broadcast at the panel, oak cabinet with lift-up lid.’ so marked were allowed to early days of radio were youngest age certainly on schools radio. As I The fact that this set displays a BBC be used under the terms of under close scrutiny! recall it, one of my father’s colleagues logo is due to what we would nowadays the broadcast licence, so My father bought me needed the sound of an unborn baby’s describe as a ‘protectionist measure’ sets made outside the UK mine just after the war. I heartbeat – my mother was pregnant with brought in by the UK Government in the were prohibited. In used to wake up early Richard at the time, and he was thus early days of radio broadcasting. practice, it’s difficult to see and listen to the Home broadcast before he was even born! As many will know, the BBC was how this law would have been Service when it came on the air about Peter Vialls originally a private company, formed by a enforced, and it was repealed in 1925, 6.30am as I seem to remember, with a group of radio manufacturers to provide although some manufacturers medley of traditional airs. The right time programmes for their customers to listen continued to use the BBC logo for a Charles Lacaille In the May Prospero, Pension Trustee Geoff waistline; my creeping baldness is normal floor. She needed something that was robust Jones stated that the settlement month for Resistance series for a man of my years, as is the inability to and strong and it had occured to us that the the annual revision of pensions is not Shadow Fighters is a co-production by run upstairs. My hearing is also perfectly linoleum that was being used in our TV important, as over time it equalises whatever Cineteve and the French-German cultural normal for a man approaching his eighties. studios would be more than suitable. month is chosen. Unfortunately this is not channel Arte in partnership with the Belgian It’s all perfectly normal! I managed to find the name and address of true. A look at last autumn’s RPI figures national public TV channel RTBF. The These faculties are that much keener in a the manufacturers who supplied the reveals a figure of 5.0% in September, 4.2% series will shed light on the creation of 20-year-old and that too is perfectly normal. material and obtained some. in October, 3.0% in November and 0.9% in Resistance organisations in Europe in World By saying we have hearing loss implies we I now need to obtain some more and have December. (data from statistics.gov.uk). The War 2, and how their commitments are ‘not quite right’, and handicapped – and mislaid the name of the original supplier. Is sudden and dramatic drop in the December influenced the post-war period in Europe. therefore there is nothing producers or there anyone who would recall the name figure was caused largely by the 2.5% The psychological battle led by the BBC directors can do about it, other than say and address of the manufacturers. If so reduction in VAT commencing December was crucial and pivotal in the course of the sorry old boy, but unfortunately you have could they please contact me on 01494 1st 2008. However, the VAT rate is not due war. We are trying to contact BBC veterans hearing loss. 520978 or at my wife's email address to return to its previous level of 17.5% until who might have worked with Darsie Gillie, There is nothing abnormal in being irritated [email protected]. January 1st 2010, – a period of 13 months. Peter Pooley, Mr Ritchtie-Calder (who by loud, intrusive or inappropriate music. Chris Phillips So BBC pensioners (and any other group coordinated the V campaign) or with Tony McFarlane who use the December RPI figure to national radio services operating under calculate increases) definitely lost out as a Foreign Office and PWE overview. We also Remember Ronnie? result of December being used as the basis would like to contact BBC members who Aerial upgrades I’m writing a biography about Ronnie of our annual increase. We lost out in worked at the tapping service which was the I was surprised to read that ‘conventional Barker, celebrating his life and career. The December 2008 and are due to lose out most efficient at that time. aerials will pick up digital terrestrial signals’ book has been commissioned by a leading again in December 2009, just before the If you are able to help, please contact me (Prospero , June). publisher. expected jump in the RPI in January 2010 by email ([email protected]) or Whilst that is generally true of domestic I’ve spoken to several people who have due to VAT returning to its previous value. telephone 00 33 148043000. TV aerials, it is not necessarily the case for worked with him, including Sydney Antony Carter Christiane Ratiney communal aerials of the kind described by Lotterby, Harold Snoad, David Renwick, the original enquirer. Barry Cryer and Richard Briers. But I would Communal aerial TV systems frequently like to hear from others who worked with Donations at source Default to silence have ‘channel filters’ which can mean that him, in whatever capacity. Whilst employed by the BBC, I was able to Re the ‘noises off’ campaign, I agree with even if good analogue TV reception is Richard Webber donate to charity direct from my pre-tax Sue Cokyll in her letter (June) – but why obtained, there may be no digital reception. 01643 706990, email at salary. Now I am retired I donate by not have the programme without ‘music’ on Such systems need to be upgraded for [email protected] standing order but this is from my taxed the normal output, and the programme Freeview, and may also require modification income. Is there any way I can arrange to with ‘music’ etc on the red button. Or is this for digital switchover. donate pre-tax money every month from my too much to ask? Richard Russell occupational pension? A win-win situation? I have had some two way e-mails on this The confusion was mine. Digital UK confirms WHERE are Clive Coston subject. In one case I complained that the what you say – that many communal aerial Phil Weinberg, senior administrator, music was spoiled by some inaudible systems will need to be upgraded or replaced – ed pension payroll, replies: BBC pensioners chatter. It was meant to be sarcastic but the you NOW? can contribute to charities through their Trailer dept. did not pick this up! BBC pension. The donation is deducted I know that we won’t win on this Digital delay before tax is calculated so there is tax relief problem – one has only to listen to Points of I have upgraded my television reception in TV artists bookings on the donation. View to realise that the BBC is always right. the last couple of years, first via Freeview and Does anyone know the whereabouts of The total amount deducted is sent each However as I worked for the Beeb for 35 more recently Freesat. Generally I am pleased one Bob McLean who worked in the month to Charities Trust, who distribute the years and during that time I was the quality with the result apart from the sound. The above department in TV Centre before donations to each charity. As the Charities monitor for all sound broadcasting quality is good but I find it irritating that it moving to Kensington House back in Trust charge an administration fee of 25p including TV sound for about two years. So isn’t synchronised with the picture. the 60s? [email protected] per donor each month it is advised that a I know that I’m always right as well! The delay varies, but is particularly Tony Burrows (07810862006) minimum of £1 is donated. There is no John Dixon noticeable on OB inserts into studio maximum donation for tax relief. programmes such as the news. Will this be Several charites can be selected, all of dealt with as we go completely digital or will Dads Army which must be registered charities. If Sounds normal we just have to get used to it? Does any one know the whereabouts of preferred, vouchers can be issued by the Ray Burgess talks of those of us with some Tom Burke Judy Allen (costume) or James Balfour Charities Trust to be presented by the donor hearing loss (Destructive music, Prospero , (camera), who worked on Dads Army to the charity directly. June). series 3-5? Please would you contact Charity selection forms can be obtained I believe the very term ‘hearing loss’ can in Floor shopping David Minty of the British Film Designers from Pension and Benefits Centre. Queries itself be destructive. As an engineer based at TV Centre I was Guild – phone 01344 622489 or email should be directed to Pension and Benefits My eyesight is perfectly normal for a chap able to help my wife when she required a [email protected] Centre Helpdesk. of my age, so is the thickening of my new surface for her dancing school studio July • 2009 • • 5 Life after Auntie Life after Auntie

Grace Wyndham Goldie (BBC) Trust Fund Applications are invited for grants from the Grace Wyndham Goldie (BBC) Trust Gone but not Poetry is the Fund, which exists to help those engaged in broadcasting or an associated activity, now or in the past, as well as their children and dependants. The Trustees, in their discretion, will consider giving assistance towards forgotten – the accountant’s educational costs in small ways, such as travelling expenses, school outfits, books and additions to educational awards. Other grants are made to help relieve sickness or continuing hardship not bottom line... covered by aid from other sources. These heroism of include giving assistance to families or elderly people facing economic problems, New talents and a different disability or serious medical conditions, such as those requiring special care. kind of public serivce The income of the Fund is limited. So that help can be given where it is most Howard’s family needed, applicants must be prepared to flourish in the country give, in confidence, full information about Even close friends are surprised at the unlikely the circumstances supporting their Lingering mystery of Gone With The Wind directions in which life after the BBC has applications. taken Richard Brooks. Those wishing to apply this year should star’s death stirs distant memories for a After retiring in 2006, the former BBC write for an application form to; BBC accountant left Reading for a new home in the Pension & Benefits Centre, Broadcasting French Service broadcaster fresher air of Lincolnshire – where, three years House, Cardiff, CF5 2YQ. Returning it no on, he’s been helping the local authorities later than 31 July. Applications are Plans to commemorate the flight that killed member of the family with a tendency banished from the house configure a new sexual assault referral centre. considered annually in September, and in Gone With the Wind star Leslie Howard have towards wartime danger and intrigue. in which he was staying in He explains: ‘The idea is rather than interview no circumstances can continuing help been followed with more than passing Patrick’s mother, Helen, née Girvin Balfour, 1958 for, he assumes, the victims of sex assault in an intimidating place over a number of years be promised. interest by retired BBC journalist Patrick and father Alfred were up to their necks in it. denouncing Franco as a such as a police station or even a hospital, to take Gerassi. Frenchman Alfred volunteered to help the dictator. them to a more sympathetic environment where 020 8752 6666 For the actor, who died on June 1 1943 allied effort in Lisbon in 1942, and was But he fell in the love with the city, never - specially trained staff, including police, can take when the aircraft in which he was flying despatched to his native Paris to organise theless – which is why he chose to retire evidence, including DNA samples.’ from Lisbon to Bristol was shot down by the secret communication and escape routes to there ten years ago. So how come the former Radio 3 finance manager is Annual Luftwaffe, was Patrick’s mother’s cousin. She Lisbon for allied agents and escaping PoWs. such an expert? was working at the British Embassy in He was captured and held for two months ‘I’m not,’ he confesses. ‘But I became interested when General Lisbon at the time, and was one of the last before managing his own escape. Top right: Patrick Gerassi’s parents, Afred I happened to be talking to someone who mentioned people to see Leslie before the fateful flight. His further exploits were described in the and Helen Gerassi, in Lisbon in 1944. that a new body had been created to support the work of Meeting Bristol International Airport and Lisbon citation accompanying the King’s Medal for Top left: Patrick Gerassi holding a picture the Lincolnshire Criminal Justice Board.’ The AGM of the BBC (London) Club will Airport teamed up recently to unveil a Courage in the Cause of Freedom, awarded of Leslie Howard with his mother, Helen, The Advisory Panel on Victim and Witness Issues, be held on Wednesday July 8, in the plaque in Lisbon commemorating Leslie after the war: née Girvin Balfour, at the Aviz Hotel in of which he is now a member, was set up to ensure that anger – anger, Board Room (3rd floor) Media Centre at Howard and the mystery that surrounds his ‘After his release Gerassi resumed his Lisbon in May 1943 (see right). feelings and opinions of victims are represented through - he perceives, 6pm. (The Media Centre is situated at death. There are also plans for a memorial in activities in Lyon. He reported to his chief in out the justice processes. that owes BBC Media Village, W12.) Galicia, on the north-western corner of Portugal in November 1942. He was then From left to right: The idea – now being copied by police and local something to Spain – which, coincidentally is where entrusted with the organisation of escape Mark Crathorne authorities elsewhere in England and Wales – is that the hard life he Patrick now lives. lines from France to Lisbon via Bilbao. British Consol, Jose ordinary people know how ordinary people expect to be had running a career while raising two sons as a single Courtyard Bar Why a non-military BOAC flight should While acting in this capacity he arranged the A, Barreiros, Patrick helped and supported when they fall victim to crime. parent. The White City Courtyard Bar is now have been targeted has been explored in a escape from France to England of several Gerassi, José Rey- ‘This is not just about making victims feel more ‘It was a mad existence,’ he recalls ruefully. ‘Very open (weather dependent) – so pop in for number of books, including two by valuable agents and RAF personnel. During Ximena, Rui Veres, comfortable,’ he stresses. ‘It’s also about making victims demanding, especially if you’re hoping to be successful in a homemade iced tea or iced coffee mid Howard’s children. In his autobiography, his activities he was arrested by the Jeremy and Ivan feel readier to come forward and report crimes – so in your work. Your day can almost never end…’ morning, or grab your friends and unwind Winston Churchill suggested it might have Portuguese police. [He was] released after Sharp, João Nunes the end it’s about more effective policing.’ On the other hand his sons, now grown up, have also with a cold beer or glass of wine after a been because Howard’s agent, who was also numerous interrogations and nine weeks’ airport deputy direc- But crime is not the only new direction his interests been his inspiration. He was initially cautious about seek - long day at work. on the flight, bore a resemblance to the imprisonment.’ tor, Mike Littleton of have taken since his move to Market Rasen. The move ing a publisher for poems with such personal associations. For more details email wartime prime minister. But there is broad At the Embassy his British-born mother Bristol airport. has fired a hitherto undiscovered poetic streak. He’s now ‘But in the end I trusted Matt and Tim to give me feed - [email protected]. (The consensus that the Germans regarded also did her bit. working on his second book, the follow-up to a collec - back. Their response was encouraging. It gave me confi - Courtyard is located opposite the Howard’s celebrity ‘goodwill tours’ as ‘When my father was jailed, she would visit tion of 53 poems entitled Subterfuge and Irony. dence, and I persevered, and a collection emerged. canteen & behind the reception on White intelligence-gathering missions. Last year him and pass on instructions to keep the ‘It wasn’t something I had planned,’ he says. ‘I had ‘The poems are often about things that trouble me, but City ground floor.) Spanish author Jose Rey-Ximena, went escape route working,’ says Patrick. been here a couple of months or so, and I thought I I hope people will see there’s a lighter, gentler side too. further, suggesting that Howard was sent by A streak of his parents’ resistance rubbed might do some writing, and the idea wouldn’t go away. Hopefully people will find that contrast appealing.’ Churchill to persuade General Franco not to off. The child, whose linguistic skills later led So I started writing observations about people and about Give or Take join forces with the Nazis. to a career with the BBC French Service, life and about me.’ • Subterfuge and Irony is published by Athena Press. ISBN Give or Take is a shopping portal for web It transpires that Leslie was not the only spent many summers in Vigo. He was So it’s philosophical, but in places his work expresses 978 1 84748 419 2 users, where you earn cash-back on all your purchases at over 700 stores. Then choose to ‘give’ your cash-back to one of our charity partners or ‘take’ it for yourself! To find out how it works, log onto the Carer’s film aims to lighten the burden of dementia club website or go to http://www.giveortake.com/index.php Producer shares skills and personal experience in Millenium Fund project CSMA Club People caring for a relative or friend with The production was sponsored by the rang he said he had been one of the Among the many problems facing the ‘This was the same dementia may take heart from a DVD Millennium Award Scheme with funds cameramen on Lawrence of Arabia , and carer is the fact that the disease doesn’t thing. Taking care of membership devised by former BBC programme- from the National Lottery after Viviana, he was willing to help me in any way I start at a definable moment. Nor is it someone for the rest of Get CSMA Club membership for just £15 maker Viviana Fain Binda. who worked in the BBC from 1979-92, needed. I, of course, thought at first this easily diagnosed. their lives is tantamount to a year. Belonging to the CSMA Club can Life with Two Hats is based on the began to campaign for more and better was a joke. But it was all real and from ‘Patients have bad days and better major surgery. That’s a job save you money on everyday life personal nightmare she experienced in information about caring for dementia then on getting another participant was days, and you have to carry on until they for specialists.’ expenses, including car and home trying to care for her mother, Hortensia, patients. not that difficult.’ do something really ridiculous, and insurance, your next holiday, your next who died in 2001 after suffering from But getting funding for the project was Geoff’s contribution to the DVD, in something has to be done.’ For a copy of the DVD, send car, and more. Membership includes 24 Alzheimer’s disease for ten years. one thing; finding contributors was another. which he explains how difficult it was to And even then you can’t just get people a stamped self-addressed hour telephone legal advice and the club ‘When you look after people with ‘For some reason people were very know what to do as his wife’s condition put into care. Processes have to be envelope to PO Box 64333, members’ magazine sent 10 times a year. dementia, you wear two hats,’ says reluctant to take part. Perhaps they didn’t deteriorated, underlines the need for understood and followed. London, NW6 9NB. (Note: the Clockwise: The DVD In addition, through the club’s special Viviana in the DVD. ‘The Florence understand what I was trying to do.’ such a film. ‘But one of the mistakes people make is envelope should be size C5 – cover; Viviana Fain interest groups, you can take part in Nightingale cap of compassion, looking In the end the project was saved by ‘When you start caring for someone,’ to feel guilty. You feel you are letting your plain, not padded or jiffy – with Binda; and contributors social activities involving everything from after physical and mental needs, and the someone else from the audio-visual says Viviana, ‘you don’t know what help relative down. But then I decided if my a 61p first class or a 47p second to Life With Two Hats . pub quizzes to vintage car rallies with warrior helmet, battling your way, finding industry –cameraman Geoff Hermges, you need, what help is out there, where mother had needed open heart surgery, class stamp) Geoff Hermges is bottom right. like-minded club members. out what services and benefits are who was caring for his wife. you can get it, or even whether you no one would have expected me to carry You can also view Life With Two Hats at Log on to Club Save on the BBC Club available.’ ‘He understood it instantly. When he qualify.’ out the operation. youtube.com website for details. 6 • • • July • 2009 July • 2009 • • 7 Back at the BBC Back at the BBC Classifieds

Seaview, Isle of Wight . Wanting to get away for a break? Pleasant ETB 4* Studio Annexe, sleeps 2 comfortably. Near Beach and The thin end of the wedge... Village. For details contact [email protected] or Tel 01983 812180. Top-slicing Two views in the top-slicing debate Provence – Modern traditional style 3-bedroom villa (sleeps 6) with proposal No: a mistaken idea Yes: give news a share pool. Near enchanting mediaeval by Ray Connolly, commentator and writer by Peter Bazalgette, media consultant and digital investor village. From £500 pw. Tel 01908 slammed by 561324 for brochure So, the Government wants to find funds The BBC isn’t like that. Independent In all of this, the first thing to secure is the transmitting opera to cinemas, to the to subsidise commercial public service politically and unrestrained by BBC as the cornerstone of public service podcast called Philosophy Bites , which gets French Alps; Winter Lyons and broadcasting, mainly regional news commercial links, it exists simply to broadcasting, producer of trusted, reliable millions of downloads. coverage, probably to be aired on ITV or serve. It has no other purpose. At the news and information, an organisation The question of how big or small the Skiing-Summer Chilling. Alpine other digital channels. same time the licence fee is the only tax central to our culture, democracy and BBC should be can be left for another day, self-catering chalet for Good. The more news coverage the we pay with full knowledge of what it is economy. I would never argue in favour of but it is time to take a fresh view of the individuals or groups up to 15. In Thompson better, and it can’t be healthy for the funding. Monkey around with that damaging the BBC. public service terrain. Look at partnerships. lovely farming village/ski resort on The BBC is in confrontational mood as it BBC to have a monopoly on these and, in next to no time, it will be The biggest fear raised by Digital The BBC has any number of partnerships prepares to fight for Government’s services. seen as just another form of Britain’s ‘contained contestable already – brilliant, worthwhile partnerships edge of GR5 walking route/national recommendation to ‘top-slice’ the licence Nothing sharpens the wits quite like hated taxation, like the poll element’ of the licence fee is with indies, cultural bodies and training park, Huge range of activities for all fee fund and use the money to prop up competition. tax. From there it would that it is the thin end of the organisations. What is the difference ages. 210 euros p.p.p.w. other broadcasters. That being said, it seems to me it be but a few steps to the wedge. If you can call for between that kind of spending outside and www.snowplacelikehome.co.uk Sir Michael Lyons, chairman of the BBC would be a massive mistake for any part beginning of the £130m now, then you can what Michael Lyons objects to so strongly? Trust, said the corporation would ‘not sit of the licence fee to be sliced off the top disintegration of the come back for more later. He and BBC management are rightly quietly by’ as the government turned licence to provide these funds. Let the corporation. That is a danger, and the happy that money goes outside for, say, Lagos , Algarve, small townhouse fee income into a ‘slush-fund to be dipped government find the new money We may not always way of guarding against it training but they resent handing over within ancient city, two bedrooms, into at will’. elsewhere if that’s what it wants. Keep like what our licence is to make the BBC £130m for regional/local tv news. roof-terrace, 5 minutes to beach. And the director-general accused the the BBC and the licence fee quite money buys, we may trustees guardians of how The only difference is that the second individuals behind the proposal – which separate. despair when we see the contestable element is example is outside the BBC’s control and it From £150pw. 07956 181613 emerged from broadcasting minister Lord It isn’t just that top slicing is the thin naïve executives gulled spent. Then you need to makes them nervous. So the answer is to [email protected] Carter’s Digital Britain report – of trying to end of the wedge, a tool which, in years by clever agents into enshrine it at exactly the leave the dispensation for news in the prove an idealogical point. to come, might very well be used by later paying silly money salaries £130m level – roughly 3.5 control of the trustees. Let them continue Lake District. Historic watermill, The proposal is to take that share of the governments to prise away more money to glitzy presenters; and we percent of the licence fee. to be the guardians of the licence fee and let licence fee currently set aside for the digital to pay for non-BBC services. It’s more may scratch our heads and That’s not a sum that will harm the news providers be accountable to them. secluded in woods and fields, switchover help scheme – some £130million a immediate than that. wonder why the planners so the BBC but it could make a huge A sum of £130m is perfectly reasonable, sleeps 6, beautiful all year. Tel. 020 year – and turn it into a contestable fund for It would, I believe, rupture at a stroke abhor a digital vacuum that they difference to other providers of public and the precedent is there, contained in the 7387 6654, email non-BBC public service content after 2012 the compact we, the public, have with cannot resist creating new channels, content. 2006 licence fee settlement. I don’t see this as [email protected] (by which time the switchover programme the BBC – our BBC, diluting as it would stations, platforms – call them what you And here’s the broader argument. It is any kind of attack on the BBC, on its will be complete). the purpose of the licence fee in the will – as soon as new technology makes absurd to say today that the BBC, or the integrity or on BBC jobs. This money is The proposal is subject to consultation nation’s consciousness. them possible, whether or not they are BBC and Channel 4, are the only going outside already. Pembrokeshire Coast: Two through the summer, but as things stand We never think about ITV or Sky or needed. contributors to public service content. I understand concerns about opening the bedroom cottage with panoramic legislation will be introduced in this any newspapers as ‘ours’ in the way we But for £142.50 a year (and if there Ofcom makes great play on plurality but floodgates. If this set portion of the licence sea views. One minute from beach autumn’s Queen’s Speech. do the BBC. Because they’re palpably not ever is any surplus, please can it be two suppliers is nothing like plurality. fee was not under government control, but In an interview on Radio 4's Media Show , ours. They’re there, first and foremost, to channelled to underfunded radio drama Even the term psb is somewhat redundant under the control of the BBC trustees, they and coastal path. Mark Thompson said the idea was being make money for their owners and where stoic staff and writers work for a because we should talk about psc – public could, by law, ensure that the 3.5 percent Tel: 020 8449 7816; or contact pushed by a ‘small group’ that was ‘ideolog - shareholders. Indeed in better times pittance) we must get the best value in service content. It’s being produced by figure was not exceeded. [email protected] ically focused more on the principle of get - some of them liked to boast, albeit jokily, the world. cultural and arts organisations – from Tate It could be a way forward that works for ting a wedge into the licence fee, rather than that they were a licence to print money. Don’t let the top-slicers screw it up. Media and the Royal Opera House everyone. having a particular urgent need’. That group Mallorca, Alcudia Bay; includes Ofcom – of which Carter was once Swimming pool, tennis, close chief executive. sandy beaches, riding, golf, The ‘immediate need’ is to sustain compe - ‘a continued and sustained decline’. radio car, which can perform only one stream way’ following Britain’s Missing Top include Paul McCartney and Brian May of waterpark and family tition in local news services – which ITV Take your partners ‘I do not see a financially secure and function, ie live radio. Also, the car can Model last year.The programme followed Queen. TALKING entertainment. Tel. 01494 673802 can no longer support on advertising Over the coming months the BBC is to hold creatively vibrant commercial sector as a nice operate only within an area defined by a radius the progress of fashion models with disabili - In a novel twist, people attending the POINTS income – but Thompson suggested in his 800 staff sessions to spread the word about to have, I see it as an essential component of a from fixed terrestrial receive points, so there ties. concert at the Royal Albert Hall have been interview that Ofcom had had its eye on the partnerships. healthy radio sector.’ are many places where it cannot be used to invited to take along their own ukuleles to licence fee fund for some time. And he Director-general Mark Thompson wants to provide live stories. join in a grand rendition of Beethoven’s Ode Volunteer argued that it undermined a fundamental transform the BBC from fierce competitor to The iCAV, on the other hand, uses a satel - Prior engagement to Joy! Volunteer in West London. Use principle. generous collaborator that can act as an £8.68 pay rise lite to provide connectivity back to base, so Everyone knows (writes Ariel ) that the BBC Roger Wright, director of the BBC Proms, Lost for words In the olden days, I remembe’r, phones your skills to publicise ‘I believe that the risk in the end to the ‘anchor’ for the rest of the UK media going A modest pay deal agreed with the unions can broadcast from more or less anywhere. It had a programme lined up for the death of says he has started learning and hopes to join ‘ undiscovered Arts and Crafts independence and the ability of the BBC to through ‘the throes of the digital revolution’. will give most people an extra £8.65 a week. is also the case that while the BBC is the Queen Mother. But apparently the in on the night. were terrible things. To place a call, deliver its services to the public is so great Partnerships, he says, ‘could become an The £450 flat rate increase in basic salary, extremely good at building vehicles for live corporation is also working on one about the The Ukulele Orchestra was founded in one was required to lift the handset home. For more details phone 020 that in my view there are no circumstances important part of the BBC’s mission’ as it will benefit around 18,000 staff or 94 radio, and separate vehicles that are good for still-to-be-confirmed engagement of Prince 1985 ‘as a bit of fun’ and has won a large and dial the number. 8748 2639, or email in which I think top-slicing would be a good extends a helping hand across a sickly percent of the workforce. live tv, it has never built a vehicle that can William and Kate Middleton. following. It has even recorded a Radio 1 The new Voip phones thankfully [email protected] idea. media sector. This will cost the BBC around £8.1m over support online – until the iCAV. According to a news item, a bragging session, helping to revive interest in an come with a double-lock on my ‘When Ofcom was interested in a public Citing the current business woes of ITV, the course of the year. If funding permits, the plan is to deploy an executive was overheard saying that ‘we would instrument that originated in the 19th decision making. Firstly, I pick up the service publisher, it was going to take about Channel 4, commercial radio, local and For those on £60,000 or more (around iCAV at each of the 40 local radio stations not be spending money on this programme if century in Hawaii. handset; then I dial the number; finally £100m and the licence fee looked like a good regional newspapers and their websites, he 1150 people across the organisation), there in the English regions within about seven we had not been assured that they were defi - I am required to press ‘ok’ to approve How to advertise source for that. Then it was Channel 4 that says there can be no safe future for the BBC will be no increase. years. nitely going to get engaged’. my consciously-taken decision to was going to need perhaps £100m and the if it stands alone ‘like a bastion of strength The £60,000 cap, which follows the salary Cowell’s heavy hitter make a call. Prospero Classifieds, licence fee was a good source for it. Now, we in a desert of failed media’. freeze for the most senior executives and the ITV has it’s woes, but it’s onto a winner in If I’m unsure what I’m doing, (an BBC Pension & Benefits Centre, are told regional news might need £100m.’ It’s a view echoed by Tim Davie, director announcement that there will be no bonuses Reels on wheels Kissed off Britain’s Got Talent . In its third series, the everyday occurrence), Siemens have Broadcasting House, In an interview with Ariel, Thompson was of Audio and Music. He says the days of for anyone until at least July 2010, matches Vision director Jana Bennett has launched an According to the Daily Mail , William show has become a ratings juggernaut, provided a five-second cooling-off Cardiff, CF5 2YQ unconvinced that the case for a cash bail-out ‘guerrilla fighting’ between commercial that imposed at cash-stricken ITV. online directory of disabled actors, performers Barclay-Clark (9) is angry at the number of crushing the opposition in a way not seen period before actually making the for independent regional news had been radio stations and the BBC are numbered. and musicians, a nationwide search for new ‘revolting’ kisses in Robin Hood and has since Who Wants To Be A Millionaire hit its connection. I typically use those five Please enclose a cheque made payable made. Initiatives between the BBC and the disabled talent and announced that disabled lodged a formal complaint with the BBC. peak. seconds to contemplate the full to: BBC Central Directorates. ‘Even if you accept that point, there are a commercial sector include Radio car overtaken actor David Proud will join the regular cast of ‘In Robin Hood , snogging happens every With its semi-finals, it produced average existential gravity of speaking to Rate: £5 for 20 words number of possible sources – for instance • developing an online live radio player, an The days of the radio car are numbered. EastEnders. single week,’ fumes William. ratings of 11.8m, 13.2m, 12.7m and 12.3m someone I cannot actually see. On spectrum tax – that the BBC and other broad - open platform that streams all live UK BBC Yorkshire and Lincolnshire are piloting The initiatives coincide with news that ‘In the last series Maid Marian died and – often grabbing well over half the total other occasions I muse whether the In a covering letter please include your casters are being expected to pay for digital radio in one place its likely successor, the iCAV (internet BBC Three is to broadcast a dance competi - now Robin is pretty much with every girl.’ audience. BBC can ever do anything the simple pension number television after 2014. That money could be • developing a common user interface and protocol content acquisition vehicle), a tion featuring wheelchair users and able bod - The final did even better, with an average way, when a more complicated option used to create a fund to support an alternative electronic programme guide for listeners Mercedes people carrier from which ied celebrity partners. Channel controller 17.3m viewers and a 68 percent share. At its is available. To advertise in Ariel, contact: Ten Alps source of regional news. across all devices – DAB, DTV, online and reporters can access all newsroom systems, Danny Cohen says the show (working title You can ukulele too very peak, it was seen by 19m people – the Dominic Casciani Publishing Ltd, Tel: 020 7878 2319 ‘I believe that a division of the licence fee, mobile phones edit and package audio and video and Dancing on Wheels ) will be ‘fun and glam - The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain’s biggest tv audience for five years (since home affairs, TVC which at the outset can sound very innocent He cautioned that unless radio began to transfer material directly back to base. orous’, and will underpin the station’s com - concert at the BBC Proms on August 18 will 20.6m saw the Euro 2004 match between and public spirited, is a dangerous path.’ act in a different way, the medium would see Compare this to the traditional analogue mitment ‘to covering disability in a main - raise the profile of an instrument whose fans England and Portugal). 8 • • July • 2009 July • 2009 • • 9 Obituaries Obituaries SM with a Picture-perfect publicist of great integrity A character who came to stay – for 66 years! Everyone who knew Pam Ridz in picture However she will mainly be remembered for played at her funeral. It was also very apt I was very sad to hear that Pat Hanlon He was born in 1924, near Waterford in work and the contact that it gave him with steward with BBC Audience Services. publicity will be sorry to hear of her death. her role in Picture Publicity, where she had to that a retirement poem from one of the died in February, aged 84, having spent the Ireland. He left school at 14 and worked in celebrities. In particular, he loved the Pat had boundless energy and Pam, sometimes known as Audrey, died at assign photographers to television department’s photographers was re-read last three years in residential care, suffering a meat factory until he was 19. Then, in excitement of live performances and being enthusiasm and with his Irish charm and talent for a nursing home in Wimbledon aged 86. programmes to obtain pictures promoting by her nephew, Nicholas: from dementia. 1943, he came to England and took up involved in anything to do with sense of humour, he was a real character. She worked for the BBC for 42 years, programmes in newspapers and magazines. ‘You’ve sent me far and you’ve sent I met Pat in 1974, when I had the good lodgings in Shepherds Bush with a family entertainment. He was a bachelor all his life and he firstly as secretary in the Administration Pam had a reputation for the utmost me wide fortune to have him working for me in the that he continued to live with for the next He avoided having to retire at age 60, by outlived all his brothers. I am glad to have department, and later in the Information integrity in all her dealings, and her At times I’ve laughed and others cried. I’ll Lime Grove group of buildings. We were 66 years! taking a job as a security officer, which known him and I am sure that he will be friendship Division, mostly in picture publicity. devotion to detail was exemplary. miss your voice on the end of the phone responsible for a number of premises, but In the early 1960s Pat took a job with the allowed him to continue in the organisation missed by the many people that he came She also worked for a time on Pam was very fond of the ballet and so it But no worry, I’ll catch you at home!’ notably the Television Theatre, which I now BBC, and went on to work his way up to until he was 65. Even then, he managed to into contact with during his life. Marsail MacCuish died on February attachment to Radio Times as a sub-editor. was a fitting tribute that ballet music was Joy Haines (formerly Joy Sambles) think of as Pat’s spiritual home! the position of house foreman. He loved his work for a period on a part-time basis as a Chris Roots 25 after a thankfully brief battle with bone cancer. She would have been 70 in October, and those sixty-nine and a half years were action packed. Significant contribution to television satire in Belfast A child of the manse, she trained as an actress, and then fell in love George Hewardine joined BBC Radio as At first he worked exclusively on the for which George is best remembered – with radio drama. BBC Scotland Child of the a l6-year-old trainee technician in short evening news magazine, but as the the James Young Show , which ran for dispatched her to London in 1964 telecommunications, and ended up as a output increased over the years, George several series at the beginning of the 70s. for the studio management training television producer. It was the sort of directed more ambitious studio and film It’s 30 years since these programmes course and then demanded her career that could be achieved in the BBC programmes, and in the early 60s he were aired, and they are still talked about. back – but three years later she in the second half of last century, but is became a producer. George retired in 1986, and enjoyed returned to BH to spend her days in difficult to imagine happening now. In 1964, George produced a series more than 20 years of a good life, playing the drama department, where her Born and brought up in Belfast, George called The 64 Group , which was a golf, travelling abroad, and, most of all, professionalism and bubbly was a teenager during the early years of breakthrough for BBC Northern Ireland. It spending time with his family. personality combined to make her Resistance, the second world war. He joined BBC radio was political satire, and in songs and His first wife, Pat, died in 1994. They many lifelong friends. in London in 1943, and after his sketches a team of young writers and had two children, Timothy and Anne, and Marsail’s other great love, engineering training worked on a range of performers, including Denis Tuohy, Ian four grandchildren. In 2001 he married however, was travel, and in 1979 radio programmes, including broadcasts to Hill, Phil Coulter and Nonie Devine, Eleanor and, as he put it, inherited three she gaily cashed in her pension to Europe which contained coded messages targeted issues like sectarianism, more grandchildren. go around the world. She returned for Allied agents and the resistance in unemployment and gerrymandering of George died peacefully on March 8, and to the UK twice to be greeted with German-occupied countries. electoral constituencies. Magnus Magnusson and George the large attendance at his funeral service open arms by all and was re- immortalised After the war he seized a chance to join This was a daring series for those days. Hewardine on location at Belfast included many of his former BBC employed instantly – but as soon as the infant television service at Alexandra The content of every edition was closely shipyard for a documentary film colleagues, and some of the she had more funds was off on her Palace, and thus began a television scrutinised by the management. George broadcasters and entertainers who travels again, eventually opting for a career that lasted for 38 years. soothed the suits, gently persuaded, unit, but he also took charge of events featured in the programmes he had permanent life in Australia in 1984, In 1957, live TV started on a small scale avoided confrontation, and got his own OBs, and produced and directed some produced. It was a fitting farewell to a working for ABC until she reached in all the regions, and in Belfast there was way – most of the time. major documentary films. man who made a significant contribution retirement. a vacancy for Northern Ireland’s first He worked mainly in light entertainment, A quiet determination to overcome to BBC television in Northern Ireland. She sent frequent, hilarious e- studio director. in the studio and on location with the OB obstacles underpinned the programmes Cecil N. Taylor mails and we all continued to see by McCartney her – Marsail was always doing ‘one last trip’, and of course many of us journeyed to Oz to see her. When speaking of Pierre Le Seve , who died home of TV news, needed to double its staff friend’s project but he could always be relied She retired in the late 1990s but continued to use a wheelchair and take an oxygen She had friends all over the world on April 11, his friends and colleagues to a total of four. Two photographic upon to give help and support. If John was to freelance for the section until 2005. She cylinder everywhere with her, but I never and from all of her life – Marsail had spontaneously mention his kindness and his technicians on each of two12 hour shifts involved, success was assured! A ‘star’ of Zanzibar leaves two daughters and a son. heard her speak in a self-pitying way. the gift not only of making friends eagerness to help anyone who needed it. seven days a week were required. On leaving the RAF in 1958, John joined Zeyana Seif , who worked in the Swahili Ayisha Yahya In 2005 Cath received a double lung but of keeping them – from school, Also his professionalism, and his vast fund Alf got one of the new jobs and so it was off the BBC as a sound operator, and developed Service at Bush House for nearly 40 years, transplant and, for a short time, was much college, broadcasting and from of knowledge about Britain, its history and to North London near to where he lived. This into a very good ‘tape/gram op’ in the days died suddenly on the very last day of fitter, able to walk, stand at the sink and hug everywhere she visited. She was the society, and the BBC French service for was an utterly traditional BBC environment when sound effects had to be played in on 2008. Trainee engineer Emily and do many of the things we all take life and soul of the party, and we will which he worked for over 40 years. complete with a lake to row out on in the live shows from 78rpm discs. Zeyana was born and brought up on the Catherine Bunney joined the BBC in 1980 for granted. all miss her. Pierre was a teenager in Orleans during breaks. He loved it. He was promoted and became a highly islands of Zanzibar when they were still a as a trainee transmitter engineer. She was Sadly, the process of Cath’s body Margaret Rushton the occupation of France, and was one of It was here that I met Alf. I never called respected sound supervisor, working on a Sultanate under British colonial rule. Her among the first women to berecruited into attempting to reject her new lungs the many who listened secretly to the BBC him Alfie – sounded too much like the film wide range of television shows of that era. first job in broadcasting was with the the BBC in an engineering role. accelerated in 2008 and she died in hospital Carol Sheward [McShane] adds: French service, the voice of hope from character which he wasn’t. I too had come His many programme credits included Zanzibar Broadcasting Service and she was At that time the engineering training following a chest infection. Marsail was a joy to work with. I London. Joining that prestigious team through the publicity route and it being the Doctor Who and, in this age of multi- one of two young women – the other was centre accommodation had communal Everyone who knew her will miss her and invariably worked as a team with her became a central ambition of his. Sixties the first day we met, I was wearing a channel TV, his name still pops up on our named Sanura – to be seconded to the BBC toilets and showers for the ‘gents’ but no many of us will hear her laugh every time and Jock Farrell on productions for Having come to Britain in 1955 to study at pink shirt, a pirates neck tie and a hooped screens from time to time. for six months’ training. On her return she facilities for the ‘ladies’, so she had to be we think of her. Betty Davies. We spent many happy Oxford, he finally achieved his dream in 1959. multi coloured tank top plus a rolled In 1982 he transferred into the new was looked up to as a ‘been there’, and accommodated in the sick bay, which Rupert Brun hours in studio, usually rounded off He was soon put in charge of the main Pierre Le Seve umbrella. Alf had no idea how he was going topical production centre at Lime Grove as became a star of Zanzibar broadcasting. offered the only ‘ensuite’ room. with a few rounds in the Club arts programme, before becoming the to work with me for 12 hours at a time. the sound manager, retiring in 1986 from (There was great rivalry, albeit good- I first met Cath in 1981 when she joined afterwards. service’s resident expert on tourism, his The next day I dressed down a bit and we the BBC. humoured, between fans of the two young the outside studios maintenance team in Technical operator Having travelled extensively during ‘Flash touristique’ giving his French- hit it off wonderfully. We spent the next John, single for many years, had married women.) London W1. She was quite an addition to Barry Hargreaves joined the London her holidays, she finally succumbed speaking audience a daily taste of the UK Bringing colour to AP twenty years on the same small shift together. Pat, a colleague at the BBC. After a number Zeyana was no supporter of the Zanzibar the team, turning up for work in bright control room in 1958, after National to the lure of Australia and with its history, culture and people. Alfred William Cole joined the BBC in Alf often said ‘we spend more time with each of happy years together, Pat died. In 1985 Revolution of 1964, and she moved with green Doc Martens. Service in the RAF as a technical operator. emigrated in 1984 to an enormous The warmth of his delivery, and his intimate 1956 at 100 Oxford Street as a page boy other than we do our wives and families’. John married Marie who had been a close her family to London, where she was able to Despite being the newest group member , Then in the late 60s when ‘Broadcasting send-off. style, were typical of this mild-mannered, complete with pill box hat and uniform. His Time moved on and the TV Centre was friend of Pat. John and Marie have had a rejoin the BBC Swahili Section and pick up she was soon organising everyone, including in the 70s’ came into being, he took the She continued her broadcasting considerate man, who never sought to impress task was to look after the needs of the ready for news to move in – so off we all wonderful time together, sadly falling short where she had left off. She was a lone female me, although I was, in theory, her boss. opportunity to move across to programme career over there with ABC and with his considerable knowledge, which he variety artists, musicians and announcers in went to White City. Alf was wonderful to of their Silver Wedding by just one year. member of the department and got used to She quickly set up a large wall chart on operations, as a programme operations also continued to gather deep and was always happy to share. the most polite and subservient manner as work with but he never really loved the new Living most of these years in delightful referring to herself as ‘the only rose in the which she planned all the routine maintenance assistant. long-lasting friendships wherever He also shared his voice... In the early 70s, was required in those days. He was state of the art facilities as much as he loved Yoxford in Suffolk, they had traveled bush’, not without justification, for she was and laughed loudly when the engineers added Finally after a spell in management Barry she went. he recalled: ‘Paul McCartney, to whom I promoted to chief page boy and moved to working at AP. extensively, but were always happy to return a very considerable beauty! ‘Studio YG’ (Yorkshire Grey) to the end of the took early retirement in 1985, after which She finally settled in Sydney and had sent a tape of my voice doing a Flash the Langham looking after amongst others Eventually he left the BBC and moved with home to their many good friends. She was an extremely able translator and chart after Studio Y5 (Yalding House). he and his wife Jean went to live in southern on retirement, being a great animal touristique, used it for his LP Band on the the cast of Mrs Dales Diary . his beloved wife to the Isle of Wight where he John had wide interests with particular her voice helped shape the section’s style – Her laugh was one of her most enduring France where he could indulge his passion lover, ‘house-sat’ for friends with Run without telling me and I had awful He never lost this early training that was made a career in Portsmouth MOD security, enthusiasm for maintaining old cars and clear, well paced and carrying authority [It is and endearing features. When she laughed for golf and living the good life. cats and dogs. She also enjoyed difficulties in getting him to send me a fee. I instilled into him for the whole of his BBC commuting every day on the ferry. This was motorcycles, undertaking clock repairs and even claimed that she was the first woman she did so with her whole body and soul. It Tragically this came to an abrupt halt some work in films as an ‘extra’ and got £6 or £7.’ Pierre can be heard distinctly career. This meant that Alf was utterly bliss to Alf. photography. Typically skilful with in the whole of the BBC to read the news.] was infectious and could be heard from when he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s helped at Sydney’s annual Literary in the song speaking Picasso’s last words – so dependable and forthright in every thing His illness was quick and to the last he had computing matters, he helped less IT Zeyana contributed to a range of some distance away. disease about three years ago, and although Festival. he also has his place in pop music history. he did. no intention of making a fuss. He leaves his literate friends and was responsible for the adventurous programming in the 1960s and After a brief spell in Manchester, Cath he was well looked after by the French Into each of these she put the His enthusiasm for the French service never He eventually moved into the picture wife Beryl and daughters Dawn and Tracey. Yoxford web-site. John also ran a moderately 70s, including outside broadcasts and returned to network radio in London to head doctors and their new friends and same enthusiasm and energy she left him. After his retirement, he could always publicity department as a photographic Roger Hooper successful allotment and belonged to two Swahili-language versions of Shakespeare the production equipment centre. In 1994 neighbours, they decided to return and had given at the BBC. Those of us be relied on as a source, and was called on, as glazing boy and later a black and white golf clubs. Although not a church-goer, he plays, and she regularly voiced the Queen’s she became manager of operations in W1. move to Scotland to be nearer to their sons fortunate enough to visit her in an expert, whenever the wartime days of the printer under the guidance of Maggie Young. became a keen campanologist. Christmas message to the Commonwealth. Her pioneering spirit had not diminished John and Miles. Sydney, found ourselves welcomed service were recalled, either in a programme His work was seen in every paper and Success assured John died in February aged just 76 and In later years Zeyana was out of sympathy with promotion and she was among the first Unfortunately the Alzheimer’s took a turn with open arms and she somehow or for a commemorative ceremony. magazine. Television was expanding and A bright youngster from the Croydon area would, most certainly, want us to remember with some of the changes to the managers to complete the BBC MBA course. for the worse and while staying in managed to give us all the grand Pierre was also a family man. Shortly after BBC2 was going into colour. The news was with a particular interest in technical his long and interesting life in a positive and department’s output and felt she was not Cath left the BBC in 1998 to work for Weymouth, waiting for the move north, tour without showing in any way that arriving in Britain, he met Katheryn, whom doubling its output and a new programme subjects, John Holmes was ‘the youngest’, happy way. sufficiently appreciated. But she was loved Sky Broadcasting. Shortly after giving birth Barry had to be admitted to hospital where she had done it a hundred times he married. called Newsroom was starting up. with a step-sister and three brothers. Marie is very grateful to the many friends by her colleagues for her charm, straight talk to daughter Emily in 2002, Cath developed he died on April 24, aged 72. before and would do so a hundred They had five children, and had recently The novelty of this programme was that it John was always ‘certain’ about things, who have been in touch and who have and extreme generosity and was commonly a rare and ultimately terminal illness, the He will be sadly missed by family and times again. celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. was to be the first news programme in seeming hardened; but indeed, he was the supported her in this sudden and tragic loss. known to them as ‘da Zeyana’(sister Zeyana) only cure for which was a lung transplant. friends both here and in France. Xavier Kreiss colour. The stills lab at Alexandra Palace, opposite. He might, for example, demean a John Lightfoot or as ‘aunty’. While waiting for the transplant she had Richard (Dick) Chinchen 10 • • July • 2009 July • 2009 • • 11 What that was all about In the last issue, Prospero asked: Do you have memories of BBC cricket – The day Wesley London vs the Regions, or the West Indian Test player Bertie Clarke, who was still turning out for the BBC in his 70s? It brought back memories Hall kept wicket for Pat Holmes and Joy Jolly

My husband, Eric Holmes, played one Sunday as a guest player – but taken at Motspur Park when Joe in the BBC first team from the he elected to keep wicket in was just leaving the field of play. mid-50s until we moved to deference to the opposing team! In those days – the Fifties and Birmingham in 1971. The photo is of the team in the Sixties – there was also an annual The captain in those days was Sixties, taken at Motspur Park. match against a side at Daventry, Leo Bennett, a former Northants Who, I wonder, remembers Joe in addition to the London/Regions player. Bertie Clarke, Ernie Eytle Filliston, our 100-year-old umpire matches. and Rodney Norville were all tal - of the second team? Still behind The last Regions match I remem - Above: Joe and Gillian ented West Indian players, with the wicket and moving sprightly at ber was played in Birmingham in the Players in the team picture: J. close connections to the national 100! The photo (right) shows him 1970s, when the prize was the Fred Workman, J.V. Johnson, R. West Indies touring team. I holding our daughter Gillian – she Hale Trophy. My husband Eric won Moore, T. Cole, J. Murphy, L. remember Wesley Hall (fast six weeks old (born 1962), he 100 a bottle of champagne for taking a Robertson, L. Stickells, C. bowler) turning out for the BBC years old (born 1862). Again it was hat-trick. Pat Holmes Barker, Eric Holmes, T. Kirk

The next issue will Recalling the regulars – on and off the pitch appear in August What a blast from the past! When like Ernest Eytle and the Bedser is a bit scanty, but I think they dinner programme for March 19 I read What that was all about in twins. These are the ones I can included Wally, Alice, Tom, 1964 which was held at the Lord’s May Prospero (back page), it turned actually call to mind: Len Phillips, George Barker and Bert Dearden. Tavern. Names on the programme the clock back for me to the early Colin Barker, Max Robertson, Lloyd We used to go on tour once a year, included Richard Hall (President 1960s. Stickells, Neil Harding, Dick normally to Littlehampton in those BBC Cricket Club), Tony Fayne, My late husband ‘Terry’ Higham, Mike Bray, Les Robertson, days, where we played several of the John Arlott and A Dickson Wright Terrington used to be the regular Les Robinson, (J.K) ‘Spud’ Murphy, local teams. One of my more painful I have also found a menu for the scorer for the BBC 1st XI from the Jim Workman, Roger Blyth, Rodney memories of tour was when Chris 5th Annual Dinner and Presentation late 50s till about 1965. Norville, Eric Holmes, Frank East Breeze (a 2nd XI player normally) held by the Top End Supporters in Bertie Clarke was a regular player and of course Bertie. ‘took’ a catch and the ball went 1963. On the back it lists the win - for the 1st XI and was always greatly There was a group of supporters through his hands and knocked sev - ners of their trophy since 1959. In entertaining to watch. He had quite that followed the team wherever eral of his front teeth out. sequence they were F.East, J.Murphy, a way with the ladies (to put it they went. They were referred to as I also remember Joe Filliston, the E.Holmes, C.Barker and R.Norville. politely) and was always great the ‘Top Enders’ and were staunch 2nd XI umpire for many years, My memories are only of the company. in their support. They would take still umpiring at 100 years old early 60s, but they have stayed with One of my personal memories was their chairs with them and position (although I think some of the me ever since. I do wonder how waking up one Sunday morning, them at the top end of the pitch to players would have liked him to many of the players are still with covered in spots. Having no idea ensure the best possible view of the have had new glasses!) us. Hopefully quite a few. what I was suffering from, I rang game. My memories of their names I have just found the annual Joy Jolly Bertie and after asking me a few questions he diagnosed German ARIEL SUBSCRIPTIONS Measles over the phone and told me What’s it all about? to stay away from that day’s cricket. If I remember correctly, he wasn’t In the autumn the [programme] will probably move to a weekday night. Although some of our audience UK: 6 months £26 actually practising medicine at may not care for the change at first, I think they will soon realise that the best time for conversation is 1 year £50 this time! after dinner rather than after lunch, and that many more people will be able to watch without Overseas: 6 months £36 I can probably remember some of interruptions from the children queuing for Children’s Television. 1 year £60 the players who turned out in those But what will Enid Harvard and I do with ourselves on Sundays? days, also a few who came and Ariel 1959 Please phone 01709 768 199 helped us out when we were short, 12 • • July 2009