Ibison

An excellent London conference today, organised by the Royal Television Society and sponsored by Netflix Twelve first-class sessions packed with industry information, insights and excellent speakers. My take-out was that it felt more positive than the tone of the Edinburgh TV festival, though the challenges remain and the tough times are not over. But amidst the general consensus that more consolidation is to come, there was real optimism for our industry and a great sense of pride in the UK production sector. And what’s not to like about David Beckham talking TV and telling us about the ‘Sticky Vicky’ honey his bees have produced? The day was wonderfully rounded off by Richard Osman and Marina Hyde hosting their podcast live from the stage and amusingly (borderline libellously) reviewing the sessions. It was lovely to see so many familiar faces and to catch up with so many people.

thinking of Dr Michael Mosley, his wife, family, friends and colleagues and praying he will be found today.

Delighted to see the Hairy Bikers ‘Fast & Fresh’ has shot to no1 in the Sunday Times manuals chart this week. Dave would have been very chuffed. This Thursday sees the Fortnum & Mason Food Awards. It was always Dave’s favourite event because the Personality of the Year award, which he and Si won last year, was voted for by their fans. That accolade meant the world to him.

A fabulous night of laughter and memories to celebrate the life of Dave Myers last night. Thank you to Fortnum & Mason and CEO Tom Athron for a wonderful venue, food and drink. Touching speeches by Dave’s wife Liliana Myers and his old mucker Si King. it was such a great turnout of people from all parts of Dave‘s life, from his early days make up artist colleagues to friends at the BBC, Orion Books and South Shore Productions. It was also so lovely to see so many TV chefs coming to pay tribute to him. The only person missing was Dave. He’d have loved it!

Very proud that our lovely Hairy Bikers are back with a big new BBC2 series starting tomorrow at 7pm.