Former BBC chairman lectures in Stratford

Cllr Lester Hudson, Sir Michael Lyons, Hugh Muir, and Cllr Unmesh Desai. Picture: Andrew Baker

Melissa York, Reporter Monday, September 17, 2012
3:00 PM

Former Newham Recorder chief reporter Hugh Muir hosted an evening with former BBC chairman Michael Lyons in Stratford last week.

Part of Newham Council’s free series of lectures, the debate on Wednesday at Stratford Picturehouse in Salway Road featured Sir Michael Lyons, former chairman of the BBC, talking to residents about investing in the potential of young people.

Sir Michael reflected on growing up in Plaistow and West Ham, speaking about the importance of public investment and building a stable modern nation.

Hugh, who was raised in Forest Gate and has a diary column in the Guardian newspaper, said: “I thought it was an absolutely fascinating evening.

“From deprived circumstances, Sir Michael has been able to place his stamp on virtually every area of our national life. It was an inspirational talk, and just the sort of contribution that will be crucial as Newham seeks to thrive in the aftermath of the Olympics and Paralympics. Figures such as Sir Michael could play a big part helping areas like Stratford and E20 punch their weight.”

The Ideas Olympiad continues on Wednesday September 19 with the Rev Lucy Winkett, Rector of St James Piccadilly, and Claire Fox, Director of the Institute of Ideas, debating if religion is redundant in modern society.

Both lectures take place at Stratford Picturehouse from 7pm to 8pm. Free tickets are available for both on a first come, first served basis at www.newham.gov.uk/ideasolympiad.