School honours television pioneer

Sep 22 2007 by Vicky Anderson, Liverpool Daily Post

TELEVISION personality Esther Rantzen made a return to Merseyside yesterday to open a new centre named after her late husband.

Ms Rantzen gave the inaugural lecture at the Desmond Wilcox Media Arts Centre at Rainhill High School Media Arts College to 150 students from across St Helens and invited guests.

She discussed the integrity of her husband’s work and, in the wake of a number of television production scandals, the responsibilities of the media and importance of telling the truth.

In more light-hearted moments, she told the audience of her love of the programmes Judge Judy and X Factor.

Rainhill High School chose to name the centre after Desmond Wilcox, known for documentaries including The Boy David and series such as Man Alive, as well as extensive charity work. He died in September 2000.

Ms Rantzen said: “The facilities here are amazing. Desmond would have been thrilled – he would never be out of the place.

“He would have wanted to meet the young people, he would have been fascinated by all the equipment. I am only sorry he can’t be here in the flesh, although I’m sure he’s here in spirit.” Ms Rantzen last visited Merseyside in June for the opening of the NSPCC centre in Great Homer Street, which incorporates a base of Childline, of which she is founder and chairwoman.

The dedication came about because of the school’s links with Shaun Woodward, MP for St Helens South, who first trained in media under Wilcox, and who he said had “incredible impact” on the politician’s own life and career.

He told the audience: “For me, the great thing about Desmond was he gave me a home, with Esther, as well as my career.

“He had a great nurturing presence. And that is kind of why I am able to do this, why I had the confidence and self esteem to do it.

“Desmond offered great wisdom but huge love. This is personally a special day for me, as he is a man I much, much miss and I am proud to tell you how much I loved him.

“He was a really great man, incredibly skilled in his profession, and it is a great honour for Esther to allow us to take his name and use it. We will treasure and value it here in St Helens.” Headmaster John Pout said Wilcox was “a remarkable man who really helped to shape modern British television”.

The Desmond Wilcox Media Centre comprises two music technology classrooms, Radio Rainhill, two music practice rooms, a media classroom, recording studio and an arts theatre and foyer which seats 200.

In the entrance there is a permanent exhibition celebrating the work of Wilcox.

The facility is used by students, local primary and special schools and residents of Reeve Court Retirement Village.

vickyanderson