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November 2009 Number 8

Home brewed success page 6-7 On the up: deficit

With highlights from Ariel falls as shares recover Page 3 News Memories of Bush and Maida Vale Did you work at Bush House, left, or the Maida Vale studios? If so you may have memories and perspectives to flesh out the histories of two important BBC centres. Recently the BBC marked 75 years at Maida Vale, a former ice rink, taken over by the BBC in 1934. It is the home of the BBC Symphony Orchestra, seen unloading their instruments in 1935, right, and hosted many famous performances and recordings. Outside its classical remit, it was used for John Peel’s Radio 1 sessions, and was home to the Radiophonic Workshop. And as the big West One building project progresses, World Service is working on its plans to commemorate Bush House as a BBC building. Some PROSPERO departments have already moved, with November 2009 the final phase planned for 2012.

Prospero is provided free to Creative approach to history retired BBC employees. It can also be sent to spouses or puts memories at its heart dependants who want to keep The BBC Heritage website has been the day that WW2 broke out (September in touch with the BBC. It relaunched with expanded content – and 3 1939), exploring how the war radically includes news about former in every key section there are windows changed the BBC’s relationship with How to inviting perspectives and memories from government as well as home and colleagues, pension issues, former staff. international audiences. contribute The site, which can be accessed at ‘WW2, more than anything else in our and developments at the bbc.co.uk/historyofthebbc, includes an history, defined BBC “voice”, linking it Recent anniversaries have included: BBC. Prospero includes ‘anniversary of the week’, with short clips inextricably with Britishness both in the • Terry and June (October 24 1979) and memories. In addition, an animated national and international psyche,’ adds • Ceefax (September 23 1974) classified advertisements. To timeline lists ten ‘innovation moments’ Robert. • Monty Python (October 5 1969) advertise in Prospero or the for each decade. Looking ahead, next year’s 25th • The Wednesday Play It’s part of a plan to move away from anniversary of EastEnders , alongside 60 (October 28 1964) BBC Staff magazine, Ariel, BBC ‘nostalgia’, and recast the BBC years of The Archers , provides an • The Saga of Noggin the Nog story as one of continuous innovation – opportunity to put groundbreaking soaps (September 11 1959) see page 11. in technology, creative formats and in a historic context, showing how they • BBC Monitoring (August 26 1939) relationships with audiences. have reflected and continue to reflect the ‘I’ve been looking at our story, and story of the UK at a street level. If any of these anniversaries trigger Subscription information for asking what it tells us about our future as ‘I’m particularly keen to hear from memories you would like to share, well as the past,’ explains Robert Seatter, people who have memories of The contact Prospero (see address Ariel is on page 12 head of BBC history. ‘As part of that Archers and EastEnders ,’ he says. ‘We bottom left) or go to Robert Seatter analysis, I’m focusing every year on will be marking those anniversaries in direct. particular anniversaries which say partnership with the National Media The best way to reach him is by email something meaningful about where Museum in Bradford via a season – [email protected]. we’ve come from and where we are. including exhibitions, speaker platforms, ‘However I know that the people with Above all, I’m interested in the impact of learning and community outreach. It the longest memories are those the BBC on people’s lives and how it’s would be wonderful to enrich the least likely to have email. So you made a difference in the life of the celebration with first-hand accounts from can also write to me at BBC History, nation.’ people directly involved in making the Room 5126, White City, Wood Lane, As part of that, BBC History recently programmes. So please do send us your London W12 7RJ.’ held a seminar on the 70th anniversary of contributions.’

Editorial contributions CROSPERO 143 1 2 Devised and compiled by Jim Palm • • 3 4 Write to Robin Reynolds Complete the square using the clues; these apply only to words • • The Editor, Prospero running across. Then take these words in numerical order and 5 6 BBC Pension & Benefits Centre extract the letters indicated by a dot. If your answers are correct, these letters will spell out the names of two BBC performers of • • Broadcasting House yesteryear. 7 8 9 Cardiff, CF5 2YQ • • Please send your answers in an envelope marked Crospero to The • Tel: 020 7765 1414 Editor, Prospero, BBC Pension and Benefits Centre, Broadcasting 10 [email protected] House, Cardiff CF5 2YQ by November 20. • 11 Clues: 1. Distant (4); 2. Earthquake (5); 3. Wide awake (5); 4. Please make sure that any digital • Council dump (3); 5. Helmsman (3); 6. On fire (6); 7. Feminine pro - 12 pictures you send are scanned noun (3); 8. Worcestershire Town (3); 9. Catch (3); 10. Bird in fable (3); 11. People with gavels (11); 12. Period (3); 13. Title (3); 14. • at 250 dpi Chief (3); 15. Popular gardens (3); 16. Go over again (5); 17. 13 14 15 Concealed (3); 18. By way of (3); 19. Make a speech (5); 20. Lazy Design & production editor: Ann Ramsbottom • • • person (5); 21. Refute (4). 16 17 Solution to Crospero No. 142: Map; Apace; Rodent; Ova; Haw; • • Mixed Sources Elate; Fan; Emend; Icy; Mob; Area; Erse; Wit; Red; Troll; Mud; Aisle; 18 19 Product group from well-managed forests, controlled sources and Rip; Mil; Reason; Lycee; Per. • • recycled wood or fiber The BBC series was Parahandy: Master Mariner. WWW.fsc.org Cert no. SA-COC-1468 20 21 c 1996 Forest Stewardship Council The winner of Crospero 142 is Mr Richard Cox of Norwich. • •

2 • • November • 2009 News Tributes to an Better news as share old campaigner Panorama reporter, author and campaigner Sir Ludovic Kennedy has died aged 89. Obituaries paid tribute to his style and his pursuit of justice. markets turn a corner ‘Ludo added much to the stock of public life, education and gaiety,’ said The Guardian . It may not be orange, but the future certain - graph, ‘the market recovered from both the values, and even if the markets continue to Duncan Campbell wrote: ‘He frequently ly isn’t as grey as it was. At March 31 the 1987 and 1993 crashes. It also recovered make a recovery, the valuation is still likely to challenged the establishment notion that FTSE 100 was 3926. At the end of from the crash after the technology bubble show a shortfall. reopening [historic] cases undermined faith September it stood at 5133. in 2003.’ ‘One of the things the actuary will look at is in the judicial system.’ The figures, as Pension Investments Looking at more recent movements, the how long pensioners are living,’ she cautioned. And The Times said: ‘With his trademark manager David Shaw explained at the figures from March to September 30 – the ‘And every time they do a valuation, they find look of wry bemusement, Kennedy laced his pensioner liaison meeting on October 1, add day before the liaison meeting – equity that pensioners are living longer.’ incisive questioning with an idiosyncratic up to good news for the BBC fund. markets showed a 30% improvement. While that’s good news in one sense, it charm that became the blueprint for a gen - He shared them with around 60 retired staff ‘So don’t get too depressed,’ he said. ‘These means that new assumptions will have to be eration of journalists and a huge hit with at the meeting in London, and he also figures significantly increase the value of the made about longevity. viewers.’ produced a graph showing share movements assets held by the scheme.’ ‘It means the scheme will need more over recent decades. And it wasn’t a one-day wonder. As money to pay those pensions over that The purpose was to illustrate points the Prospero went to press, the FTSE 100 was longer period.’ Ernie’s anguish Trustees have been making ever since shares fluctuating around 5000. Discussions about that will continue after Ernie Wise wanted to break up his double plummeted last year. But no one is counting any chickens. Jan the valuation, she said, but it’s likely to mean act with Eric Morecambe, Eric’s son Gary Namely, that markets fluctuate and bounce Killick, head of Pensions, stressed that the true bigger contributions from the BBC, and has revealed in a book, You'll Miss Me When back, and that pension investments are for picture of assets against liabilities won’t be additional securities – which could take the I'm Gone , marking the 25th anniversary of the long term. known until a full valuation of the scheme as form of BBC assets signed over to the Fund his father’s death. ‘As you can see,’ he said, pointing to the at next April. It won’t depend entirely on share – to bolster the asset base. His father’s papers include a letter from Ernie, written around 1950, before the pair had made their mark in television. Ernie made it clear how much he valued his friendship with Morecambe, but feared he BPA to test was losing his ‘zip’. Gary says his father told Ernie: ‘Rubbish!’ best month ‘Mud’ singer dies Opera singer and long-running radio panel - list Ian Wallace has died aged 90. for pension To the post-war generation he was known for his signature tune The Hippopotamus Song , otherwise known as Mud, Glorious calculations Mud. But to Radio 4 listeners he was best- The BBC Pensioners’ Association is known for his appearances on My Music , conducting tests of its own to prove or never missing an appearance in 27 years disprove the BBC Pension Trust’s assertion from 1967 to 1994. that in a typical year the December RPI is no better or worse than the RPI for any other month for the purpose of calculating Carols at Bush pension increases. This year's Bush House Carol Service is on The move, shared with pensioners at three Monday December 7, 1.10 to 2pm in St. regional BPA meetings in October, follows Mary le Strand church (opposite Bush last year’s 0.9% pension increase. The increase House). The speaker is Mark Wakefield of was based on the RPI rise from December the BBC Trust. 2007 to December 2008. But as many pensioners pointed out, had the increase been Cardiff and Norwich. based on September-to-September figures, Some were perenniels – notably the pension BBC PENSIONERS’ ASSOCIATION they would have benefited to the tune of 5%. levelling option, which is a continuing The Trust argued that it’s swings and grievance for some. a strong association for a safe pension roundabouts. Others were new – including a feeling ‘Over time,’ Trustee Geoff Jones told the that August 14 to September 4 offered BBCPA has been working for over 20 years to association AGM, ‘experience has shown insufficient time for pensioners to vote in protect and safeguard your BBC Pension that there is no great merit in choosing one the recent trustee ballot. Why not join us? month over another.’ Sandra Phillips, secretary to the trustees, Was he right? Alan Bilyard, association said they had following the recommendation Your support is vital to ensure our voice is heard. treasurer and one-time director of business of Electoral Reform Services, who ran the Just fill in the form below or visit our web site: affairs for BBC Worldwide, will be going election on behalf of the trustees – but added back over past RPI figures, month by that they could look at allowing more time www.bbcpa.org.uk month, and hopes to produce a definitive in future. Individual Annual Subscription £10.00 answer. And at the meeting in Scotland there was a Joint Annual Subscription £15.00 ‘The records go back to 1947,’ he told big what if. What if, as nationalists have Life Membership (over 80) £50.00 Prospero . ‘But I’ll probably just go back over suggested, the BBC in Scotland were to the last 20 years. And I will be very interest - become the Scottish Broadcasting I would like to make a donation £ ed in the result.’ Corporation? The association pointed out It was among a number of issues covered in that, whatever happens to the BBC, the fund discussions at BPA meetings in Glasgow, is ringfenced. Title (Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms) Pension Number

First Name Surname

Address

Postcode Date of birth

Tel Number e-mail

BBCPA is an independent organisation which operates to support the interests of BBC Pensioners The BPA recent meetings in Norwich (top) and Cardiff November • 2009 • •3 Memories 60 years of the BBC Riding Club

The school of In the October issue you reproduced a picture from the BBC Riding Club, and asked who is the hard knocks lady with the three horses. I think it is my wife, formerly Miss Elsie Izod. Sadly I think I can claim to be one of the very she cannot contribute any memories of the club as early members. she is now a permanent resident in a care home, It was during my time working as a news and suffers from Alzheimer’s disease, which has typist in Foreign Services News Division reached an advanced stage. (FSND) at Bush House that I saw the In past times she often spoke of the club, in which invitation to join the newly formed Riding she was active during the period 1954-56. A large Club. black horse of which she was especially fond was It was arranged that we should receive called The Doctor. I wonder if anyone who was a our instruction at Knightsbridge Barracks. member during those years remembers it? Having acquired a secondhand pair of Roy Privett jodhpurs and some very unyielding leather riding boots, I rather self-consciously caught the bus to Knightsbridge. Arriving at the barracks, I was rather unnerved to find I had to walk the length of the riding stables where the soldiers How Philip opened the were engaged in grooming their horses. Braving all the whistles and remarks as I clattered in my hard soled riding boots on the stone flagged floor, I eventually entered the indoor riding gate for BBC trekkers school. I joined about ten other novices waiting How lucky I was, aged 18, to get my first job for our horses to be lined up in one long in the BBC Club Office in Langham Place row. In front of them stood the riding working for the late Margaret Castle, a stal - instructor dressed immaculately in black wart member of the Riding Club. riding gear, hair greased back and looking, As a very keen rider, by the end of that first to me, rather menacing. day I had joined the Riding Club – and thus He had been borrowed from the police started a wonderful time with the Riding force for our weekly training. His first Club which gave me great friends with command was to mount our horses. whom I am still in touch. Mine appeared to be the biggest one The three horses were stabled at Summer there. I raised my foot shoulder high, but Mews, Hyde Park, firstly looked after by the could not reach the stirrup. With an terrifying Mrs Bruce, and then by an exasperated sigh the instructed strode over Australian, Ross Nye. to me and hoisted me up into the saddle. Weekly riding lessons took place on We did some limbering-up exercises Monday and Thursday evenings at the Royal (sitting back to front in the saddle and so Mews, Knightsbridge Barracks and then on). Wellington Barracks, under the direction of Then came the order to ‘walk on’, and Geoff Dorset [ could this be the Mr Dawson soon I was enjoying the experience of mentioned below? – ed ] who taught the sedately circuiting the arena. Mounted Police. Then came the command to ‘trot on’, One evening at the Royal Mews a palace and all the other horses did – except mine. Equerry turned up with a key having been Impatiently, the instructor strode over with instructed by Prince Philip to let us into his crop and struck my horse on the Windsor Park, so that we could ride there buttocks. whenever we wanted. The next thing I remembered was Perhaps he felt sorry for our horses always waking up on the floor with the anxious in London. Whatever the reason, this gener - whether we wanted them face of the instructor looking down at me. ous gesture was much used, and we would ‘dressed or undressed’. ‘Are you alright,’ he enquired. take the horses down each weekend for a The Riding Club entered ‘I think so,’ I said. good gallop which was greatly enjoyed by many horse shows, usually those ‘Well, get back on that horse then.’ horses and humans alike. specialising in riding club It was afterwards that the other riders After the demolition of Hyde Park Mews events. The most memorable told me the horse had bucked me off the horses moved out of London to Park was the Royal International straight over his head. Lucky there was Farm, Northwood. This was a long journey Horse Show at Wembley the plenty of sawdust on the floor – and a lot for us all but the club continued to thrive year it was held in the Wembley of it on my face. and we had the benefit of an indoor school. Football Stadium (the White Carol Broughton The annual Trek was always looked for - city stadium was being demol - ward to. One, over the downs to ished to build BBC White Marlborough in 1966, provided great hilari - City). Our team of three led the ty when the farmer would only let us camp riding clubs onto the ‘hallowed there if the boys went in one field and the turf’, and riding through the girls in another with the horse between us! tunnel into the stadium had an We ran our own BBC Horse Show in electric effect on the horses. Balloon Meadow, Windsor. Big equestrian To the horses who made all names such as Alan Oliver used to partici - the fun times possible – Henry, Kildare, Top: Helen Faircliff with Spotty – taken on pate. Windsor Barracks used to lend us Spotty and Giles to name but four – thank the New Forest Trek in 1967. ‘squaddies’ to build the jumps, and it caused you. Above: Helen on Henry at Summer Mews great amusement when their CO asked Helen Faircliff (nee Wienholt) (ex OBs) Whatever happened to Shirley? Between 1953 and 1956 whilst working Mr. Hughes and Mr. Dawson [ could this Dawson when he caught me jumping off as the junior secretary to Tahu Hole at be the Mr Dorset mentioned above? – a moving bus in Piccadilly! Egton House I was a member of the ed ]. I wonder if anyone else remembers Shirley (maiden name??) who married BBC Riding Club. them? Peter Greene in 1955 was a good friend In those days we had the use of the They were excellent instructors and and I remember riding with her and other Knightsbridge Barracks indoor riding really put us through our paces. We also members of the Club at Taplow. I school for an evening every week. used to see them quite often when they wonder if anyone else remembers her – Our instructors were two members of were on duty round London. I can sadly we lost contact years ago. the London Mounted Police Force –a remember getting ticked off by Mr. Audrey Bradley

4 • • November• 2009 Letters This issue … Gramatical imperfections; sounds from the beaches; a question of age Audio options through the set-top

Peter Hodges complains ( Prospero , October) the boats prior to the troops landing. Can about the premature switch-off of FM radio anyone help? transmissions (proposed for 2015) and A picture from the past Helen Grierson protests that ‘if we want to continue listening to radio we must buy DAB radios’. But, surely, lots of people already have Visitor descrimination digital radio in their homes without Why are volunteers for the BBC Visitor appreciating the fact. Anyone with a digital Scheme rejected as I was because of age? I TV set-top box can use it to listen to the might be over 80 but can still act as a radio, either through their TV set or by stationmaster/guard on a preserved railway, taking the audio output through their hi-fi be a tour guide for the Forest of Dean, or system. Some Freeview TVs have the ability read for the blind. Perhaps age to switch off the picture while listening to discrimination should be shown in the the sound. In fact, 90 per cent of homes request for volunteers. now have digital TV. And, of course, yet G Purrier more people listen to radio over the internet: by 2015 this number will likely Christine Geen, who manages the Visitor have grown substantially. Scheme, replies: I agree that the problem of secondary I’m sorry you were told that. Recruitment of radios – in bedrooms, kitchens and volunteer visitors normally takes place bathrooms – might still lead to unnecessary among those pensioners newly retired. That scrappage, but don’t we have to wait and see said, we do have visitors who have joined us how much of a problem that is nearer the several years after retirement. But we have time? (But, no, I don’t have an answer to the no upper age limit and in fact have three issue of car radios.) I found this photo on Ebay. On the back BBC until 1968 I could be wrong. visitors at this time who will turn 80 next As for the question of sound quality, I it claims to be a still of the first BBC We were still using the equipment like year. wonder if too much isn’t being made of north drama Tomorrow May Be Fine , that in BBC Wales in the late 60s! DAB’s deficiencies. Few of us listen to the with a date on the print of 1991. It Hope some reader can identify it and radio in ideal audio conditions. And there’s appears to be part of a if they would like an electronic copy by WATO origins a generation growing up that listens to commemoration of Television in the email then please contact me on May I add to the tributes to the late Alastair everything digitally compressed to 128kbs North 1951-1991 [email protected] Osborne. To be in his company in the 60s via the iPod. To them a DAB station By the cameras I’d guess it’s about John Wilson and 70s was to be in an oasis of calm in a broadcasting at 160kbs or 192kbs (such as early 60s-ish but as I didn’t join the Ex BBC Bristol,Pebble Mill, and Cardiff. frenetic world. Radio 3) will seem like an extravagance! However there is some slight confusion Roger Hughes for the chaps, if her vacuous statements are about the origins of The World at One . It anything to go by. We are also told that Strictly D-Day appeal was started in 1964, possibly with a Come Dancing goes to 35 countries? I for one, I wonder whether anyone reading Prospero different title, presented by a very Alesha diction hope that means in format only, otherwise I can help a friend of mine with some sound young Winston Churchill, grandson of Well, the departure of Arlene Phillips has hate to think what English students abroad effects. the great man. He was not a success, and certainly caused a stir ( Prospero October). make of the fragrant Alesha’s pronouncements He was in the Royal Navy during World there was at least one other presenter Argument and counter argument for and to the dancers when she tells them they ‘wasn’t’ War II and has been asked by a school to before the arrival of William Hardcastle in against ageism. Even being included in the doing this or that on the dance floor. give a talk about D-day. He would very 1965. His dominating personality has order paper in the House of Commons and Matt Conway much like to be able to demonstrate what apparently eclipsed memories of his here was me thinking that the inclusion of According to BBC Worldwide, the Strictly the multi-launch rockets sounded like predecessors. Alesha Dixon was just to provide ‘eye-candy’ format is now seen in 75 countries - ed when they were fired at the beaches from Reg Turnill

AT THE FRONTIER P: What is an ‘HD ready’ television set?

DN: Most flat screen TV sets now The bigger picture offered for sale are HD-ready. This means that they are suitable for showing HD, and have an HDMI port Prospero interviews Danielle Nagler, which can take the leads required to connect to an HD set top box or the BBC’s head of High Definition bluray player. But in order to get an HD television service you need not Prospero: What is modern HD and titles which are already available in HD UK population. HD also requires only an HD-ready set, but also an HD how does it match up (e.g. vs cinema include Strictly Come Dancing , Friday reasonably high bandwidth, and a service provider (currently Sky, quality)? Night with Jonathan Ross , Antiques good graphics card and processor Virgin or Freesat) and an appropriate Roadshow , Doctors , In the Night when it is delivered over the internet. set-top box, connected with an HDMI Danielle Nagler: HD pictures contain Garden , Doctor Who , Who Do You lead. five times as much information as a Think You Are? , Hustle , and Dragon’s P: Are there extra costs in HD You can find more information at normal TV picture. This means that they Den . The range of programmes and production (e.g. closer attention to these websites, or on the BBC’s own can show more detail in faces, action, the absolute volume of HD detail in set and costume design?) HD site and landscapes or other backgrounds, programmes made for and by the BBC http://www.bbc.co.uk/hd and the colours can look richer. HD is is growing steadily, broadcast on BBC DN: HD is more expensive on the http://www.hdready.org.uk/ used for television but it is similar to HD which is the BBC’s HD service. whole than standard definition for http://www.dtg.org.uk/consumer/hd.html 35mm film which is used for most three main reasons. Firstly, as a new cinema releases. P: What are the constraints for HD (e.g. technology prices for equipment and P: What’s the future for HD? bandwidth)? for production services can still be P: What programmes is the BBC higher than SD, although prices are DN: The number of HD channels in making in HD? DN: Because of the amount of falling. the UK is likely to increase, and the information in HD pictures, an HD Secondly, some aspects of production amount of programming that they DN: The BBC makes programmes channel requires more capacity than can be more complex in HD, for offer in HD (rather than upscaled SD) from all BBC channels and genres in one broadcasting in standard example delivery of 5.1 sound mixes is also likely to increase. The prices of HD. In total we’ll be making over 1500 definition. This is not an issue on which sometimes accompany HD HD boxes and TVs – which have hours of programming this year, satellite or cable but means that the programmes, or the rendering of CGI already fallen significantly – are likely ranging from natural history series like DTT Freeview platform is challenged (computer-generated images). Thirdly, to come down further, and HD will Nature’s Great Events , and in terms of the number of HD services HD can be harsher than SD in become available on Freeview. HD Yellowstone , through sport including it can carry. Freeview HD will launch highlighting bumps on sets, or flaws in DVDs – bluray – will become Six Nations Rugby, Wimbledon, and with three HD channels (including the make-up and costumes which can increasingly widely available. And as the World Athletics Championships, to BBC’s) next month, and by Summer mean that some of the standard average broadband speeds increase, children’s programmes, comedy, 2010 HD services through Freeview ‘short-cuts’ which look fine in SD HD content on the internet will entertainment and drama. Familiar will be available to around half of the don’t work as well. increase.

November • 2009 • • 5 Life after Auntie Life after Auntie

Grace Wyndham Goldie (BBC) proved particularly harrowing: the Aberfan Wandsworth Prison. ‘We had permission to disaster. go in from the Governor, Mr Beasty, but Trust Fund ‘This was probably the most difficult only for 24 hours. We worked all through Applications are invited for grants from thing I ever did. I worked there on and off the night. the Grace Wyndham Goldie (BBC) Trust It’s all gold in for a year and it was hard. I can remember ‘Certainly I look back and think there Fund, which exists to help those engaged driving down to Wales and were great achievements, although one in broadcasting or an associated activity, talking to parents, then always feels one could have done better.’ now or in the past, as well as their going home with it all Ivor’s favoured documentary genre was children and dependants. in my head – it was human interest. One of his proudest The Trustees, in their discretion, will almost unbearable. achievements was a film entitled Vince, Ivor’s orchards For some reason the Paul, Lawrence and Richard , about some consider giving assistance towards educational costs in small ways, such as mothers weren’t Stepney boys and their chances of survival, travelling expenses, school outfits, books allowed to see the still regarded as one of the BBC’s finest. and additions to educational awards. Country life is a far cry from Aberfan bodies of the ‘It was quite poignant. We went in, talked Other grants are made to help relieve children and many and listened to them and it was probably sickness or continuing hardship not and Andy Pandy for a former film director of them were very the first time they’d ever been taken covered by aid from other sources. These disturbed.’ seriously – we did help change their lives. In include giving assistance to families or By Matthew Barnett Moving to general fact, we’ve kept in touch.’ elderly people facing economic problems, It was 30 years ago that Ivor Dunkerton left features and Man Other films followed, such as The Welfare disability or serious medical conditions, a career as a BBC television producer to Alive , he worked State 30 Years On , which tellingly portrayed such as those requiring special care. take up a smallholding in deepest on a memorable the relative fortunes of two families, those The income of the Fund is limited. So Herefordshire and start a cider business that production, a of a wealthy Lloyds broker and a hospital that help can be given where it is most has grown into Dunkertons Cider. film about porter. 1978, Rome: Geoff with cameraman Mike Viney waiting in St Peter’s needed, applicants must be prepared to But while cider making has proved a Thirty years on, with products on the Square for the new Pope (Pope John Paul II) to be chosen. give, in confidence, full information about rewarding challenge, the BBC still exerts a shelves of Waitrose and surrounded by acres the circumstances supporting their powerful hold over him, both in terms of of prime orchards planted by Ivor and his applications. the many distinguished people he worked partner Susie, he looks back with affection Those wishing to apply this year should with, the opportunities to engage with at his BBC career. He recently attended a write for an application form to; BBC different lives and because of what it taught reunion of Man Alive and was struck by the Pension & Benefits Centre, Broadcasting him. genuine warmth and affection of former The shot you House, Cardiff, CF5 2YQ. Returning it no The lure of television was there from an Tonight colleagues. later than 31 July. Applications are early age. As a three year-old in 1936 he and he ‘Colleagues such as Jack Pitzey and James considered annually in September, and in remembers creeping downstairs and peeping put himself Astor... There are so many I have enjoyed no circumstances can continuing help through the balustrades at his parents’ TV set. forward as a working with, not only professionally but as over a number of years be promised. After national service and a spell at Regent director. ‘The friends. Certainly the BBC helped shape me Street Polytechnic where he studied first film I directed was with in many ways. It really is a marvellous didn’t see photography, Ivor worked in film, and joined McDonald Hastings about the Great institution and instils high values into its 020 8752 6666 the BBC as a ‘trainee assistant holiday relief Fire of London, after which I worked employees – qualities such as integrity and film editor’. with Alan Whicker excellence. They are still with me.’ he cameras are so much better, legends – among them the recently Duties included scrutinising prints of on a film about And the future? and communications are so deceased Mike Viney and Brian September Andy Pandy for quality purposes – a rather female lumber- ‘The funny thing is that I’m surrounded Tmuch slicker that these days Barron – in a career that began at soporific experience, he recalls. It was when jacks. by people who want to retire, but I want to the viewer tends to sit back and take Alexandra Palace in 1963. By the winners he joined the Tonight programme that he ‘But the period I really do more. We need to buy more land and the news for granted. time he retired in 1996 Geoff had Congratulations to Club began to find his feet and feel properly relish was that spent expand, there’s so much to achieve. The So Geoff Hale’s biographical tale of more than 100 overseas lottery winners Tyrone challenged. working with Fyfe important aim is to make the very best cider life as a news picture editor is a assignments under his belt – and White, John Porter, Karen ‘Some of the editors were so quick – Stan Robertson. We made a and perry. At the moment we sell all over sharp reminder of just what it takes enough stories to fill a book. Edwards, Ernest Bounds, Janet Bone, Hawks for example. I would get in very series of films for the UK and export to cider loving Finland to get actuality from the front-line • See Review, back page Jonathan Howard, Gerald Prudden, early in the morning when the building was Tonight that were where, at the Helsinki Beer and Cider back to base, and thence to our Richard Gilbert, Paul French and silent in order to prepare and compete. It extremely well Festival – reputedly the largest in Europe – sitting-rooms. Christopher Lansdown was very exciting.’ received – it just Dunkertons Black Fox won ‘Cider of the The title of his memoir – It’s Alright Promoted to researcher, Ivor was working clicked.’ One Cheers to a change of direction Year’ and a Gold, while our Premium Cider Leaving Me… – is itself an in-joke in the north of England when he got his film that they Picture courtesy Hereford Times won a Silver. There are many more cider among news crews who Children In Need break. Jack Gold and some others had left made together drinkers out there!’ have risked life and limb BBC Club will be supporting the annual only to hear bosses appeal by selling Pudsey key-rings, Left: some forty years after she came into back in the newsroom bandanas and trolley vouchers in all of service, C9 is in a sorry state grumbling about the the Clubs from November 16-20. quality of the shots. There will also be a cake sale at White The classic, Geoff recalls, City: £1 per slice with all proceeds Down but not out engine now starts easily and runs sweetly was coverage, with Derek going to the cause. It is at White City and the old lady has recently been driven Collier, Don Nesbit and every day, all day from November 16- gently round the transport yard on her James Robbins, of the siege 20. first tentative run for many years. Video of a town hall in Nantes in 1985. – a vintage cameras were there to record the event. ‘A man came out with a pistol, The most amazing thing about ‘C9’ is the and started shooting,’ recalls Tennis offer interior, which is completely intact and Geoff. ‘We ducked for cover, but The Aegon Masters Tennis at the Royal almost original. It’s just as though the crew we left the camera running. As it Albert Hall takes place from December had gone away for a tea-break back in 1982 happened, a bullet went straight into 1-6. The line-up includes Goran scanner rolls again and never come back. the lens. Next thing we got a Ivanisevic, Stefan Edberg, Pat Rafter The truck is still in its original BBC livery complaint from and Mark Philippoussis. restoration in mind. He arranged for it to be of grey with a green waist-band. The Post London to say there was a black For tickets at 10% off, log on to Club C9, one of the BBC’s early colour OB trucks, is back stored in an aircraft hanger in Honiton, Office cords are all there, hanging on a strap hole in our story.’ Save on the BBC Club website Devon for another ten years. on the sound bay, still bearing the legend Geoff worked with many BBC News from the dead. Former audio supervisor Jerry Clegg Recently, ‘C9’ changed hands again ‘North 3’, and a clip-board in the racks area when ownership passed to another broad - still has BBC planning sheets fastened to it. River Cruise tells the story cast enthusiast, former HTV Lighting She’s a modern day Mary Celeste, which has Enjoy a 40 minute sightseeing cruise on Director, Steve Harris. Steve now runs his been quietly adrift, apparently in fine the Thames with live commentary BBC premises come and go. There was Another colour scanner of the same batch own business, On the Air at the Vintage weather, for the last twenty-seven years. presented by trained guides. Dickenson Road in Manchester, Pebble Mill is said to be in storage somewhere on behalf Technology Centre in Hawarden, restoring So what does Steve intend to do with 14 From Waterloo Millennium Pier at the in Birmingham and Lime Grove in London, of the National Media Museum. and selling vintage radios and tvs for tons of historic BBC scanner, in which London Eye. to name but three. They’ve all disappeared, Enter CMCR9, registration no AMU collectors. Barney Colehan once presided over editions Log on to Club Save on the BBC Club almost without a trace, including Tel.OBs at 418H. Fitted out at Pye TVT Ltd in He is fortunate in having a friend in the of The Good Old Days ? website for details. Kendal Avenue. Royston, Cambridge, in 1969, it entered heavy haulage industry who is an Albion His declared intention is to restore her to as But old BBC OB units apparently just go service as London Unit 5 and then became enthusiast in his spare time and owns sever - near as possible original condition for display on and on. A former BBC colour scanner, the Midland Unit in Birmingham in the al vintage trucks. CMCR 9 is based on a rare at vintage transport festivals and broadcast Give or Take London 4, was spotted in Cornwall recently, mid-70s, and eventually completed its BBC Albion Clydesdale chassis – so who better to enthusiasts rallies, for the enjoyment of all. He 1989 Delhi Give or Take is a shopping portal for with a lathe installed in its production con - service with a brief spell based in Manchester take on the job of restoring the former is busy at the moment restoring the EMI 2001 - with web users, where you earn cash-back trol room, being used as a mobile workshop. as the first North 3 in 1980-82. North 3 to mobility? cameras that are with the unit. They were Brian on all your purchases at over 700 Another colour scanner, North 1 of 1969, On retirement from the BBC, this scanner The unit was transported to Chester changed at some stage from the original Pye Barron stores. Then choose to ‘give’ your cash- was discovered intact in a farmer’s field in was sold to a small video company which from Devon on a low-loader and is PC80s. editing in a back to one of our charity partners or Kent, where it had stood for the last twenty eventually went bust, and then to a private presently being made ready for its first Asked about the daunting prospect of hotel room ‘take’ it for yourself! years, gently surrendering to corrosion. The owner in Shepton Mallet, an electronic engi - MOT test in decades. There have been powering up the vehicle’s technical during the To find out how it works, log onto the vehicle being beyond redemption, all its neer who planned to restore it. problems with the brakes and the vehicle equipment for the first time this century, Indian club website or go to technical interior was stripped out and pur - However, circumstances changed and he electrics and particularly with the cooling Steve was uncharacteristically a little coy. General http://www.giveortake.com/index.php chased as a job lot by an enthusiast, to use in eventually sold it, after about ten years, to a system, but nothing a dedicated band of ‘Well, I might not switch on the air- Elections a restoration project elsewhere. former BBC cameraman who also had expert enthusiasts couldn’t overcome. The conditioning at the first attempt!’ 6 • • • November• 2009 November • 2009 • • 7 Back at the BBC Back at the BBC

Classifieds Elba island Beautiful private apartment in Porto Azzurro,overlooking the sea. Sleeps 5-6 All inclusive rates Tel:01260227262 or email [email protected] For Sale: BBC Broadcasting books and other printed material. 1928 to 1990. Web mission to convert the codgers Including rare books by Asa Briggs and other well known authors. BBC Ten million adults in the UK, representing Yearbooks,Lunch-time Lectures, The almost a quarter of the population, never use Listener and other ephemera. Approx. 4m the internet – and perhaps not surprisingly, a shelf run.Detailed list on request.Offers significant number of those are aged 60-plus. please for the complete collection:Jeffery What’s more, 83 percent of non-users say Boswall,Birdswell,Stoney Steep,Ham they are unlikely to start using it any time New rules Lane,Wraxall,N.Somerset,BS48 soon, with a similar percentage knowing lit - 1JZ.Email: [email protected] tle or almost nothing about the internet. Tel:+44(0)1275 853 418 Sixty-six percent of those questioned in a Seaview, Isle of Wight . Wanting to get survey, commissioned by the BBC from away for a break? Pleasant ETB 4* Studio Essential Research and Ipsos MORI, said Annexe, sleeps 2 comfortably. Near they simply had no interest. for a Beach and Village. For details contact The average age of non-users is 61, but [email protected] or internet-aversion is not confined to the elderly. Tel 01983 812180. A significant minority (14 percent) are between Lagos, Algarve , small townhouse within 15 and 34. ancient city, two bedrooms, roof-terrace, 5 The findings were published as director- minutes to beach. From £150pw. 07956 general Mark Thompson hosted an Online new age 181613 [email protected] Access Forum at Television Centre at Pembrokeshire Coast: Two bedroom which delegates from the BBC and outside cottage with panoramic sea views. One organisations discussed how they might help The redrafted editorial guidelines absorb the lessons of fakery, the Brand/Ross minute from beach and coastal path. to bridge the digital divide. Tel: 020 8449 7816; or contact The BBC believes non-users are missing affair, and concerns about the impact of new media. The headlines... [email protected] out – for example, on opportunities to Mallorca, Alcudia Bay; Studio pursue hobbies and interests, keep in touch • Humiliation: Post Brand/Ross, there is • Misleading audiences: Learning of output. recording has to be referred to editorial apartment (2+2), Swimming pool, tennis, with loved ones, and save money on goods greater emphasis on generally accepted lessons from ‘Queengate’ and the other • Fairness: A clearer definition of policy. close sandy beaches, riding, golf, and services – and a number of remedies standards and audience expectation, fakery scandals of 2007, a new section informed consent has been added and, • Blogs: The notion that ‘nothing should waterpark and family entertainment. were suggested. They include: with significant new guidance relating to on Avoiding Misleading Audiences with echoes of Brand/Ross, further be written [online] by journalists and Tel. 01494 673802 • enlisting friends and family as ‘connection judgements on humiliation and intrusion advises against certain production warnings against humiliation. If an presenters that would not be said on air’ Brittany, Dinan. Delightful medieval coaches’; – the difference between a comic techniques, including intercutting shots entertainment show wants to use is not new. But there is revised guidance riverside town with many restaurants. • using internet-connected tv to make wind-up and intimidation. ‘Some comedy that give a misleading impression of deception for a ‘humorous wind-up’, that audiences should not be able to tell Attractive apartment in old merchant’s online services more accessible to people can be cruel but unduly intimidatory, events. material should normally be pre-recorded from any output their ‘personal house; quiet, central. Beaches, walks not accustomed to computers; humiliating, intrusive, aggressive or • Interacting with audiences: and consent of individuals obtained prejudices’ – a more specific term than close. Near St Malo channel port and • communicating the benefits of facilities derogatory remarks must not be Substantial new guidance, following the before broadcast. New guidance deals ‘views’. Dinard airport (Ryanair). Sleeps 2, such as photosharing and catch-up tv; celebrated for the purposes of breaches around competitions and with letting contributors know that • Children: Parental consent will be double or twin. From £185pw. 020 8995 • reassuring people that ‘the internet is for entertainment.’ phone voting. Principles include that content could be archived online or needed for any contributor under the age 8543 [email protected] them, can save money and be fun’. • Language: More focus on the context winners must always be genuine, appear on third party websites. And of 16, bringing the BBC guidelines into But delegates at the forum acknowledged in which the strongest language can ever competitions handled with rigorous care following an upheld complaint about line with the Ofcom code. How to advertise that winning over internet ‘resistors’ won’t be be justified, including after 9pm. ‘When a and the audience must know when inaccuracies in the drama The Curse of • Opinion polls: Expanded advice easy. Millions of them have have never sat at a section of content is justified but the slot, opportunities to vote or participate are Steptoe , there is clearer advice on reflecting new editorial policy guidance Prospero Classifieds, keyboard, and ‘starting now is not exciting and channel or context are not appropriate no longer available. making drama involving real people. issued last year, including that BBC Pension and Benefits Centre, for strong language, it may be necessary Impartiality: A concept of due Privacy: New provisions deal with programmes should not lead a bulletin Broadcasting House, Cardiff, CF5 2YQ stimulating, but completely overwhelming’. • • Please enclose a cheque made payable to: And getting new recruits up and running to edit or bleep language, even impartiality – adequate and appropriate availability of content through social simply with the results of an opinion poll. BBC Central Directorates. on the web is only part of the battle. post-watershed.’ to the output – is made a prominent media, already in the public domain. And there is more emphasis on national Rate: £5 for 20 words ‘Even once they’re on the internet, many • Violence: Reflecting Ofcom criticism theme. There is new guidance on judging Producers should consider that re-use diversity in reporting political parties. In a covering letter please include your people find it difficult to navigate their way that episodes of EastEnders featuring a what makes a subject ‘controversial’, will bring material – including content • Archive: Exploitation of the archive pension number around,’ observes Stuart Knapman of ‘buried alive’ storyline and a pub gang including topicality and sensitivity. about distressing events – to a much calls for fresh editorial scrutiny in the use To advertise in Ariel, contact: Ten Alps Publishing Essential Research. fight were unsuitable for an early evening Broadly, impartiality advice is revised to wider audience. The new draft introduces of historic material – including that Ltd, Tel: 020 7878 2314 A retired professional, who had owned a audience, programme makers are now take account of the BBC Trust, which has the concepts of ‘legitimate expectation released for use by others. The guiding computer for several years, but had only just asked to consider the impact of emphasised breadth of opinion, of privacy’ and ‘proportionality’. Is the principle is that archive material must started using the web. He tried to book a ‘sustained menace or an unrelentingly alongside the idea of applying ‘due level of intrusion proportionate to the take account of the guidelines in force at FRIENDS REUNITED flight... dark tone’. weight’ to those opinions, across a range public interest? In addition, all secret the time it is re-used or reversioned. ‘I started the process on Monday morning and didn’t finish until Thursday night.’ Even Peter Barron, director of commun- • Up-front information about senior sions early can remain active members of the year’s annual MIPCOM tv market in ications for Google, concedes it is pointless manager salary discounts against private Pension Scheme and build up further benefits, TALKING Cannes. Doctor Who fans have had a glimpse trying to force matters. He said people ‘have to sector pay (i.e how much less you can to be taken when they eventually leave. POINTS Greece became the latest country to buy Time for a change: of the future with the unveiling of a want to go online’. expect to earn at the BBC than your Dancing with the Stars , the international new logo. It is the 11th version, equivalent in the independent sector). version of Strictly Come Dancing . It has now introduced to coincide with the Trust chair Sir Michael Lyons said: ‘We live NHU review Gift wrapping been sold in more than 30 countries and Graphics regeneration of 11th Doctor Matt Trust targets pay in a world where no one should expect an The natural history unit may move from its viewed in more than 75, and BBC Smith in spring 2010. A review of executive remuneration recom - annual pay rise.’ home at Whiteladies Road, Bristol. How lovely to see the spirit of Pravda is Worldwide estimates that a quarter of a Regenerate The logo has changed as much as mends slicing a quarter off the £79m pay bill He adds that with a savings target of 3 Mark Thompson raised the possibility during still a‘live at Ariel. Last week we l’earnt that billion people have seen a local version of the the Doctor himself since 1963 when of the 634 most senior managers and reducing percent per year, earnings have to come a visit to the west country to launch a partner - a majority of BBC staff affected have show. Dancing has entered the Guinness simple white text on a black Two former BBC newsmen who had senior manager numbers by 18 percent to under the microscope. ship between the BBC and the city of Bristol. voted against moving to Salford. Forty five Book of World Records as the world’s most background heralded the appearance not seen each other for thirty years around 520 by 2013. More corporate roles are ‘We’re trying to manage costs in difficult ‘As we move from analogue to a wholly percent voted in favour, with presumably successful reality tv format. of the first doctor, William Hartnell. were reunited recently – in the Algarve. likely to go than jobs in output areas, says the circumstances and we see evidence of being digital future, we need to look at how we 55 percent against or undecided. Below: Notable incarnations include the At the BBC, Andy White (left in report, commissioned by the BBC Trust in able to strike good deals for new talent on best use our presence in a way that fits the So what do we get as the Ariel The first ‘diamond logo’ associated with Tom picture) was a cameraman whose February and drafted by management. and off screen.’ ambitions of [people] in this city,’ he said. headline? Radio @!>@@!! logo and Baker and the retro futurism of the assignments took him to many The policy will also see: ‘I’m not ruling out staying at Whiteladies ‘Almost half say yes in last Salford vote.’ It was sung in Latin, but you can’t take bottom Sylvester McCoy era. countries, while fellow Scot Arthur • Salaries of the nine executive board Road, but we should look at whether we can Brian Milligan, chances with the Radio 3 audience. The right: The final three shows with current Binnie was based in Aberdeen. members and the BBC direction group, Having your cake... find a new site that meets those ambitions, BBC Business and Economics network issued a warning about swearing in the new doctor David Tennant will go out The two, who have long-since retired, including that of the director-general, Following press speculation about BBC ensuring value for money.’ Magnus Lindberg’s Graffiti for chorus and logo soon using the existing logo. discovered they were less than a mile frozen for a further three years, making a earnings, the Corporation has pointed out Thompson signed a memorandum of orchestra. The piece included ancient apart after the local English language four-year freeze in total that it’s not unusual for employees to receive understanding with key agencies, including • a new micro budget feature film which will graffiti from the walls of Pompeii, including newspaper asked readers for • Senior manager salaries frozen for a a pension and salary at the same time. the city council, committing the BBC to see three full-length feature films devel - the line ‘Nymphea fututa, Anomus fututa’ experiences or impressions of visits to further year to at least August 2011 People with two or more years’ pensionable work with local organisations to boost oped, shot and premiered in Bristol during (‘Nymphea was ****ed, Anomus was the Algarve, and Arthur’s response was • Bonuses for all executive directors service who are above a certain age ask for their regional tv production, film-making and 2010 and 2011. ****ed). seen by Andy. suspended until further notice pension to be paid, in whole or in part, while digital skilling. Similar partnerships will follow in other Andy says he would welcome the • Bonuses for other directors and senior continuing to work for the corporation. The three year partnership includes: parts of the UK, including Glasgow, Cardiff chance to meet any other former managers suspended for a further two years The qualifying age is currently 50, but under • a new drive in schools and colleges to boost and Salford. Cut-price Christmas colleagues who intend to visit the • A review of all senior manager posts as new legislation it will rise to 55 in April. media and digital production skills Many staff predicted it would happen, and it Algarve. His email address is they become vacant Under the flexible pension arrangement, pen - • a ‘school for djs’ with the BBC opening up has. Christmas celebrations in 2008 were [email protected] and telephone • Greater attention to internal promotion sion payments are reduced if taken early using its studios Dancing world-wide capped at £25 a head, and the budget has number 00351 282 789959 and succession planning to cut down a scale determined by the BBC and the Pension • a media training project for 18 to 25-year- BBC Worldwide sold dancing to the been cut again – only this time to zero. Staff external hiring Scheme trustees. But those taking their pen - olds in disadvantaged communities Greeks and cooking to the Italians at this will be footing Christmas themselves. 8 • • November• 2009 November • 2009 • • 9 Obituaries Obituaries Transmission veteran and Fells expert Costume dresser of wit and acumen Contacts Dedicated Visiting Scheme Barrie Holden’s recent unexpected death at our Daventry transmitter as a technical Association. His knowledge of the Lake It is with a feeling of much loss that the Robert joined the BBC in the 60s, and Robert was also a strong and active 82 saddened us all of the Skelton retired staff assistant. District Fells was second to none. He never death of Robert Springett is grieved by his worked on many of the Corporation’s most member of the ABS, with a competent and If you would like a visit or information on fraternity. After training at the BBC Engineering forgot a route. friends and acquaintances. prestigious and demanding productions such reasoned approach to any problem. how to become a volunteer visitor, please Barry was born and educated in Reading School at Evesham he transferred to Skelton Having reached a stage in life when he His erudition, practical intelligence and as The Barchester Chronicles , Doctor Who , He had a deep love of classical music and was ring 0845 712 5529. You will be charged radio and his working life began at about age 16 as a transmitter engineer. couldn’t keep up with the team he still took meticulous attention to detail were apprec- Tender is the Night , Crime and Punishment , an avid reader, most especially of history, and only as a local call. with an apprenticeship with a company who Here he served as an efficient and weekly walks with me where we were able to iated by many artists, costume designers the Shakespeares and Gulliver . there cannot have been an exhibition in made milking machines. unassuming engineer playing a full part in take our own time and pace. and fellow dressers on a wide variety of After leaving the BBC, Robert worked on London that he had not visited over the Queries He then worked as a telephone technician the life of what then was a large staff and Another retirement interest was in sharing productions over the years. 15-to-1 , where William G. Stewart speaks years. For benefit and pension payroll queries, OBs man with Post Office before working for a time community in Cumbria. He played cricket with his wife Kath voluntary work with the Robert did not have an easy childhood. His highly of his many years’ sterling support. In Robert leaves no family but his dry wit, call the Service Line on 029 2032 2811. for the Air Ministry as a wages clerk. for the BBC (Skelton) Club and loved to Meals on Wheels charity. parents died when he was very young, fact, Robert was so well regarded by this wide learning and general acumen will be On call-up he served with REME and saw play snooker with colleagues. We extend our sympathy to Kath and to causing him to grow up with great self- production team that many of them were sorely missed by an extended circle of Prospero service in the Middle East. His main interest after retirement was with his daughter Jacquie and son Michael. sufficiency and so to the highly competent moved to pay their final respects at his friends. To add, or delete a name from the On demobilisation he joined the BBC at the Penrith branch of the Ramblers’ Ken Shepherdson. senior dresser we all knew and respected. funeral, and Mr Stewart gave Robert’s elegy. Barbara Kronig 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 A veteran of Hollywood and the BBC on audio tape for those with sight impairment. Energetic ‘time Paula Leonard , who died on July 4, was in glueing together the many creative her flair for display and organising public To register please ring the Service Line a great BBC stalwart. She joined the talents behind The Shock of the New , the events was invaluable, and in 2004 on 029 2032 2811 corporation in 1971 working first in the seminal series in which Robert Hughes moved to Career Link, the unit which press office and then light entertainment. unravelled the 20th century through its supports staff whose jobs are being made BBC Club In 1973 she moved to music and arts, art. redundant. The BBC Club in London has a retired where she was to stay until the mid- Paula will be best remembered for the ‘There was a time when coming into the category membership costing £24 a year nineties. big contribution she made as unit Media Centre wasn’t a ball of fun for me, for members; and £36 a year for family lord’ and First as a PA and then as a unit manager of Omnibus , which won two but Paula was always there with a smile membership. Pre-1997 life members are manager, she became a brilliant and Baftas during her tenure. and a kind word’ is a typical comment. not affected. Regional clubs may have Tony Flack , affectionately known as highly-valued enabler and supporter of She was a clever organiser and a great Paula’s genuine care for people made different arrangements. ‘Flacky’, joined the BBC in the mid production talent. team builder. Generations of new recruits her known to many, right across the BBC. Please call BBC Club London 1950s and worked in Birmingham tv She worked in Hollywood with Gavin to BBC arts can, and do, thank Paula for Everyone warmed to her openness and administration office on 020 8752 66 66 or studios and OBs for about 10 years. He Millar on his Busby Berkeley film where the unique way she made them welcome her mischievous sense of humour. They email [email protected]. worked on the two old monochrome the showmanship of the dancers, then in and let them into the secrets of how the knew they could trust and rely on her, not scanners, and this was a source of remarkable their eighties, echoed her own vision for BBC really works. And if they couldn’t just as a colleague but as a friend. Benevolent Fund many stories of narrow squeaks and life. find a way, Paula nearly always could. The BBC is only as good as the people This is funded by voluntary contributions problems with which OB people are all Colin Nears, whom she worked with on She insisted work should be fun, as well who work for it and Paula brought to it, from the BBC and its purpose is to protect too familiar. his Schubert film, remembers her as ‘the as creatively successful, and she for over 30 years, dedicated hard work, the welfare of staff, pensioners and their In the early days of the audio unit he most lovely, laughing and lively girl to be singularly made the annual M&A laughter and fun, and behind all of it, a families. Grants are made at the discretion joined radio OBs and moved between with’. Christmas Party a hot ticket. simple but profound humanity. of the trustees. They may provide assis - radio and television in the course of a For three years, Paula was instrumental She joined recruitment in 1997 where Andrew Snell tance in cases of unforeseen financial week. Many people were taken under broadcaster hardship, for which help from other Tony’s wing when learning about radio sources is not available. OBs and have asked that their deep gratitude for his guidance and Mention the radio presenter Graham Graham; we’ll miss his broad grin – you gone straight to Tiananmen, which of course Her great subject knowledge, enthusiasm recordist and later in studios as a sound super - company and then for a manufacturer of Prospero Society mentoring should be noted. Without a Knight to those who knew him and the could hear it on-air and enjoy it in his I wanted to do with every atom in my body, and sense of humour, together with her visor on programmes such as London Plus , laboratory chemicals. Prospero Society is the only section of the doubt, radio OBs was Tony’s niche and words you keep hearing are genuine, gener - company. I would get big footed royally, not least by passion for cakes, are all things by which she Newsnight and Breakfast Time . Returning to Bristol, where he had been a BBC Club run by and for retired BBC staff he spent the last 20 years of his career ous, warm and caring. Gary Andrews Brian himself. He was right, of course. will be remembered. In 1989, as current affairs and news joined, student, Peter married Woody in 1950. and their spouses. Its aims are to enable here. As a person he was one of the good guys, Brian Barron was the best sort of reporter, Later in her BBC career Penny became a we both moved up the road to work as His association with the BBC began in BBC pensioners to meet on a social basis He was very closely associated with as a broadcaster he was the consummate in the best traditions of the BBC. He would production manager on the Future Now senior sound supervisors in the newly 1955, also in Bristol. He freelanced as a for theatre visits, luncheons, coach outings his local Methodist church and spent professional. Enviable talent get out to the story to see for himself, then project, working with a small team in White formed bi-media sound section for news. reporter and a continuity announcer, and he etc. Prospero is supported by BBC Club many hours installing new mains wiring He was at home in the radio studio – Brian Barron was a real foreign correspon - find the words to tell it. He made our City to look after multiplatform training and Highlights of the period included rolling played small parts in radio drama. funds so as to make events affordable. and sound reinforcement. He was from simply because he was exactly the same on dent, the kind we all wanted to be. competition at ITN nervous. large events. news for the coverage of the first Gulf War, In 1958 he joined the BBC staff as sports The only conditions (apart from paying a a strongly Christian background and and off air; nosey, genuine and generous. I was in awe of him when I joined the It is a tragedy is that he didn’t have many Penny blossomed in this role and really came the births of BBC World and News 24 as producer for the West Home Service; the small annual subscription) are that you this showed in his work and He made his programme team’s life easier, BBC 25 years ago. I thought he was a very long years ahead with Angie and Fleur to into her own organising events involving all well as many Newsnight , One , Six and Nine news editor at that time was Peter’s friend must be a BBC pensioner and a member relationships with colleagues. and frequently funnier. As an interviewer he cool guy, a legend. That feeling never wore enjoy his life and every now and then turn departments of the BBC and a host of other O’Clock News programmes, working along - and mentor, Stuart Wyton, and he also of the BBC Club. Write for an application Probably the finest example of his was Paxman-persistent, but if sometimes off. on the tv and watch with wry amusement companies. side young output editors such as Mark worked with great broadcasters like John form to: Graham Snaith, 67 Newberries dedication to broadcasting happened bloody-minded, almost always bloody Brian seemed to have been on all the big the efforts of those who tried to emulate his All of those who had the pleasure of working Thompson, Adrian Van Klaveren, Richard Arlott, Brian Johnston and Wynford Avenue, Radlett, Herts. WD7 7EL, in his last winter of service. As marvellous. stories. There was Africa and the Falklands brilliant career. with her were impressed by her dedication to Sambrook and Peter Horrocks. Vaughan-Thomas. telephone: 01923 855177 co-ordinator of Birmingham radio OBs, Jan Rogers, a colleague at BBC Derby, recalls and the 1991 Gulf War, and Cairo, Hong Jeremy Bowen her role, her warmth and her generosity of Dave’s organisational skills, and perhaps In 1963, Peter obtained a post in the mobile: 07736 169612 email: I was telephoned at 6pm on a Friday that his days seemed like the Tardis. There was Kong, Washington, New York and Rome. I spirit; no matter how busy she was, she always his prior experience as an excellent union BBC’s Sydney office where he worked first [email protected] evening by our Norwich engineer. He more room inside them than us non time- remembered him reporting from Vietnam, had time to help other people. rep, equipped him well for ‘spells in the for Douglas Fleming and later for was going down with flu, and could not stretching Lords could quite understand. Into where he stayed on in Saigon with Eric Motorcycle tragedy Penny was a stalwart of the BBC; committed office’, which quickly merged into a Humphrey Fisher. BBC products do live football coverage from Norwich it went work, wildly assorted interests, family Thirer, as great a cameraman as he was a Our friend and colleague Penny Vernham to its principles and always prepared to give permanent management role during the It was a career change that introduced him BBC retired staff are entitled to a 30% City the next day. and friends, and any random conversation you correspondent, to watch the North has been tragically killed in a motorcycle 100 percent to any project she was involved in. nineties, first as manager sound and then as to programme sales for the first time, and discount off the RRP of most products I told Tony and he simply replied: ‘I’ll might want to have with him. How else did he Vietnamese Army’s final victory. accident while on holiday in America. She will be very sadly missed. an operations manager for tv news. when his tour of duty in Australia came to in the BBC TV Centre shop. There is a be on my way in 20 minutes.’ turn up with a headful of ideas, books read, That took guts, of which Brian had plenty. Penny joined the BBC in 1975 as a clerk in Andy Wilson We shared an office and, once again, Dave an end in 1966 he returned to Villiers postage charge of £2.95 per order Sounds easy? He set off before and news scanned every morning? He had energy too. After many weeks in publicity based at Queens House. She went on was there to teach and guide, offering a great House in Ealing to work for BBC (not per item). Pensioners must quote 6.30pm on a 180-mile trip on a filthy And however busy he was, he always made China, reporting on the pro democracy to work in artists contracts, scenic facilities and management tip – a reliance on bananas for Enterprises. their BBC pension number when winter’s night and reached Norwich by time to chat and offer encouragement or demonstrations in 1989, he went back to as assistant to the head of programmes, Organisational skills energy when the going gets tough! He stayed with Enterprises – and ordering. Contact: BBC Shop, llpm. He had faced severe weather from support where needed. Hong Kong for a short rest. One morning resources and engineering. Dave Batt , a man of great integrity, a skilled Dave retired from BBC News in 1997 after television sales in particular – until 1980. By Audience Foyer, Television Centre, Cambridge onwards, but the He arrived at BBC Radio Derby in 1983 to the foreign editor John Mahoney rang me. Penny was a huge motorcycling fan, soon professional and a highly regarded 38 years. He was a much loved husband to that time Enterprises had become a limited Wood Lane, London W12 7RJ. Tel programme was done next day without present the mid-morning show and stayed ‘Barron’s on his knees, old boy. I need you joining the BBC Club motorcycle section operations manager for BBC News, has died Margaret; father to Richard and Caroline company and Peter was its first Sales 020 8225 8230. a hitch. On his return to base he dug for 14 years. to get out there, Honkers, then Pekkers... and becoming its secretary. She enjoyed at the age of 67 following a long illness. and grandfather to Isabel and Thomas. Director. In his time with Enterprises he Email [email protected]. me in the ribs and complained with a And yet he loved being freelance; it allowed ok?’ many rideouts and social events with the Dave joined the BBC in 1960 on his 19th Our thoughts and prayers are with the worked for Dennis Scuse, Peter Dimmock Other ways to order (quoting your pen - big grin that he had never been so far in him to juggle many things. He broadcast While I was in the air flying to Hong group. birthday at a time when there were only two family at this sad time, including Caroline and Bryon Parkin. sion number when ordering): four-wheel-drive mode, going largely Monday to Friday for BBC Radio Derby and Kong that evening the Chinese authorities She was also a keen horse-rider and a tv channels. who works on many of the same programmes Peter loved his work and the world of By phone: 08700 777 001 8.30am- sideways for the last 30 miles to Saturday and Sundays for Radio 2. sent troops in to Tiananmen Square. At the member of the BBC Riding Club; never shying His early career at TV Centre involved him as her father as a floor manager for BBC television, and he always felt indebted to the 6pm weekdays. By post: BBC Shop, PO Norwich. Among others he also worked for BBC BBC office in the Cable and Wireless away from the fast lane – be it horses or motor - in the ‘Golden Age’ of BBC comedy and News. BBC for taking a chance on a later starter Box 308, Sittingbourne, Kent ME9 8LW. He retired in the mid 1980s, a exhibitions, BBC television, BBC Children building in Hong Kong it became clear very bikes. studio drama, working on programmes such Peter Coles (he was 37 when he joined the staff). Email: [email protected]. bachelor – and to the surprise of many in Need and also helped many organisations quickly that Barron was far from being on Penny took a break in the early nineties to as the Morecambe and Wise Christmas shows, He had no interest in retirement and Or visit BBC Shops in Eastbourne, colleagues announced that he was to such as the National Trust and Amnesty his knees. He was heading straight back to spend time with her baby daughter Alice, Dad’s Army and Only Fools and Horses as well continued to work until 1995, taking on a Brighton, Leicester, Birmingham or get married to Diana Thomas. She ran a International. Peking, as the BBC called the Chinese and when she was ready to return to work as costume drama and children’s tv, like Sales director variety of posts and consultancies. He ran Liverpool. UK postage £2.45 for busy farming and livestock business, He latterly set up a successful web design capital in those days. she did so as a course co-ordinator for tv Crackerjack which he loved. Peter Lord , who had a 25-year career with the London sales office of the Canadian telephone, post and email orders. and Tony assisted her at many cattle company and then ran a specialist tea and If he was disappointed about not being operations training at Elstree. I first got to know Dave in the late 1970s. the BBC, has died aged 88. Broadcasting Corporation for several years; Overseas: £4.50 for one item and £2 for shows. They were much involved with coffee shop in his adopted home of there he didn’t show it, and he had time to She regularly set up shoots, worked with I was a fresh-faced sound trainee and he was After leaving the army in 1945, Peter later he was the European Director of each additional product for telephone, the Red Poll Cattle Society. Nottingham. console a young reporter who perhaps actors and crews on location, and organised a highly skilled sound professional, yet he followed his mother into the theatre. The NATPE (the National Association of post and email orders. Tony, it was a privilege to have Graham had been ill for some time, but naively had thought he was about to replace all tv training activity. would always encourage and train others. high point was a West End appearance in Television Program Executives). worked with you for 30 years. Our typically he was often more concerned about the great man. She rapidly endeared herself to the In 1983 we were both among the pioneers of The Skin of our Teeth , starring Vivien Leigh Peter’s much loved wife Woody died earlier BBC PA heartfelt sympathy goes to Diana. his wife Cherry, his boys and his friends than Brian told me that I was better off staying television training team and was a mainstay the PSC (portable single camera) operation at and directed by Laurence Olivier, but he this year. He is survived by three children For details of how to join the Pensioners’ David Payne himself. in Hong Kong for a few days, because I of the Elstree ‘family’, much loved by all the Lime Grove topical production centre. soon gave up the stage and went into and six grandchildren. Association, see panel on page 3. It was a privilege to know and work with would have my own story there, and if I had those who knew her. Here Dave worked on the road as a sound industry, working first for a cosmetics John Lord (Son) 10 • • November • 2009 November • 2009 • • 11 Book reviews Laughter, on and off ohn Baddeley is the consum- remarkable comedy timing must Gt Portland Street, a Jmate ‘actor’s actor’. have impressed, and possibly celebrated watering hole Double Take is a richly rewarding alarmed, some of them in equal for the BBC glitterati, autobiography, sharing many of measure.) particularly poets. Louis the qualities he has as a performer. He worked considerably, too, on MacNeice must have Witty, warm hearted, cannily Schools Radio (often ‘live’) as well observed Dylan Thomas observant, with an unbeatable as for the World Service with the lose consciousness in sense of comedy and, sometimes, English Radio department. those convivial surround- the tragedy, of life. He writes with Having shared studios with him ings on many occasions. beguiling humour and generosity. many times – and the West End Reggie could always be It’s thrilling that his gifts can be stage – I had the pleasure of found having his liquid shared not only with the theatre, directing him in Ayckbourn’s M an of lunch there, and out of radio, and television audiences but, the Moment a few months ago for work actors would drop now, with readers too. Radio 4. On this occasion I think he in around mid-day in the John has probably shared more described his role as ‘a telling cameo’. hope of catching his eye. microphones than many of us have It was a mere five lines, but masterly He would frequently had hot BBC canteen dinners. Baddeley somehow managed to return to the production Having worked in radio for over secure a laugh on each one of them he was currently working fifty years, his reminiscences of from his colleagues around the mic. on, at around 3pm, with those with whom he has performed For those who were part of BBC an additional actor in (or brushed impeccable shoulders radio from the fifties to the tow. against) are many. nineties, the anecdotes in this ‘I’m taking a few of your It’s a wonderful word picture un-put-downable book will surely be lines, old boy, to make a of an important aspect of broad- a happy and humorous journey back separate character for John Baddeley casting, from one of its most to halcyon days. Here’s a flavour: Norman – you don’t accomplished players. ‘The staff of the Radio Drama mind do you?’ He has been involved in BBC Dept. was made up of fascinating He would have found a talented, anyone interested in the life of an radio drama, both as a freelance and diverse characters. R.D.Smith impecunious and eccentric actor actor, and especially those involved and as a member of the Radio (Reggie) was well-known to every like Norman Wynne ‘marking time with radio. Drama Company; also with Light starving actor. He bestrode the in a pool of snuff and Martin Jarvis Entertainment, working with corridors of BH as if he owned it. A Worthington’ at The George and Copies, in two volumes, soft back, many well-known comedians, passionate cricket lover, he would stretched the budget to give him a with illustrations by the cartoonist including Morecambe & Wise, wear a huge white cable-knit day’s work.’ MAC and foreword by Richard Ken Dodd, Kenneth Williams and sweater at all times. A favourite The chortle factor within these Briers, available via KHP Frankie Howerd. (I’m sure his own haunt of his was The George in pages is high. Essential reading for Distribution, phone 020 8941 4573

What’s it all about? Trials of life behind 8.00 Announcement re Wavelength and News 8.06 Records 9.30 Religious service the news 10.00 Announcement from Downing St re Prime Every so often, along comes a Minister’s speech little gem of a read. 10.02 Records It’s Alright Leaving Me 10.40 Announcement re Prime (Travels of a BBC Editor) by Minister’s speech & records Geoff Hale and published by 10.45 Talk: Making the most of The next issue will Bright Pen is just such a gem. tinned foods (Anne Beaton) appear in December The title is the comment 11.15 Announcement re Prime made by a technician in some Minister’s speech, followed by far flung place when those speech by the Prime Minister sitting in comfort back at the 11.23 Government Television Centre are critical of announcements the picture quality they are 11.26 National anthem receiving. 11.31 Records This book is not only a 12.01 News biography but a history of BBC 12.08 Records TV news gathering from 1963 Geoff Hale 12.40 Announcement & records to 1998, and covers some of 1.19 Recording of the speech the most momentous and Such as: naively walking into today appear as ‘apprentice’ by the Prime Minister memorable events, foreign and a fracas between the Shah of journalists cutting their teeth in 1.30 News national, of the period. Iran’s police and student TV reporting in remote 1.50 Records Underlying the timeline and demonstrators and its locations. 2.00 News the crisp anecdotes are consequences; trying to This book is a must for media 2.25 Special Admiralty descriptions of the generate small talk with Her historians as it relates to life at announcement extraordinary changes in Majesty the Queen that led to the coal face by the very 2.29 Recording of Prime technology and equipment a senior Naval Officer having people who bring us the news Minister’s speech that have taken place within to do some explaining; and but never stand in front of the the media and how the crews being bought lunch by King camera. Do you remember that day? coped with them. Hussein of Jordan. It is the stuff of history, up Send your memories to: ARIEL SUBSCRIPTIONS The author has a flair for the The anecdotes give us an close and personal, the very Prospero Editor understatement and treats his insight into royal tours, heart of news gathering. BBC Pension & Benefits reminiscences as a mere conflicts, political summits, the Paul Kite Centre UK: 6 months £26 passage of time in situations death’s of world leaders, all • It’s Alright Leaving Me…Travels Broadcasting House 1 year £50 that must have been nerve related from a personal and of a BBC Editor, Geoff Hale Cardiff, Overseas: 6 months £36 jangling and in some cases highly involved point of view. Published by Bright Pen. CF5 2YQ 1 year £60 downright terrifying. News media celebrities of ISBN. 978-07552-1099-2 or email: [email protected] Please phone 01709 768 199

12 • • November 2009