Lancing College Evelyn Waugh Lecture 2014: ‘The Drain Brain’, By Sir Peter Bazalgette

  • 10 years ago
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Lancing_College_Sir Peter_Bazelgette_and_Jonathan_Gillespie
Sir Peter Bazelgette and Jonathan Gillespie

Sir Peter Bazalgette was appointed Chair of the Arts Council England in 2012, following his distinguished, high profile career as a television producer and executive. Sir Peter has been Chair of English National Opera, a Non-Executive Director of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport and Deputy Chairman of the National Film and Television School.

This year’s lecture, entitled ‘The Drain Brain’, focused on Sir Peter’s great-great-grandfather, Sir Joseph William Bazalgette (1819–1891), who was the chief engineer of London’s Metropolitan Board of Works. Sir Joseph is known for being responsible for the creation of a sewer network for central London in response to the ‘Great Stink’ in summer 1858. His system was also instrumental in relieving the city from cholera epidemics.

Following the lecture, Sir Peter took questions from the students, parents and invited guests, and gave fascinating and well-informed responses to a number of topics, including the future of the BBC and funding cuts to Arts Council England.  His witty and engaging style ensured that this was an evening of amusement and entertainment, as well as information. It was certainly an event to remember.

Lancing College has an enviable reputation for its lectures and debates. Its distinguished alumni include Evelyn Waugh, David Hare and Christopher Hampton; and the students’ debating society is one of the most active and exciting in the country. The College holds an annual Evelyn Waugh Lecture and Dinner to thank all members of the Lancing Foundation and those who donate generously to the school.

 

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