Urban World

Sir Trevor Brings Home a Bafta

VETERAN BROADCASTER Sir Trevor McDonald received a standing ovation the TV Baftas when he was awarded one of its highest honours on May 22.

The former News At Ten anchor and presenter of Tonight, who was given the Academy Fellowship at the annual ceremony for his 'outstanding and exceptional contribution to television', said that it was the responsibility of news broadcasters to, "make accessible to as wide an audience as possible the complex issues that arise in national and international politics," as he picked up his award.

Sir Trevor, 71, joins figures such as Lord Bragg, Sir David Jason and Richard Curtis who have all previously been given the highest honour.

Speaking to URBANWORLD'S OSWORLD, Sir Trevor said: "This is a magnificent surprise. I am honoured and absolutely delighted to join such a distinguished list of previous recipients."

During his career the Trinidadian-born presenter has interviewed many of the world's leading figures including Nelson Mandela, US President Bill Clinton and George Bush, Tony Blair and Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein.

John Willis, the Academy's TV committee chairman, said: "No journalist and presenter is better loved and respected by the audience than Sir Trevor McDonald

Other winners included ITV2's 'well ream' The Only Way is Essex, Daniel Rigby (Eric and Ernie), Vicky McClure (This Is England '86) and BBC One's Sherlock.

By JANELLE OSWALD