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NEWS > In Memoriam > Greville J. Havenhand | Wortley House 1948 - 1953

Greville J. Havenhand | Wortley House 1948 - 1953

Passed away 6 September 2024, aged 89 years.
30 Sep 2024
Written by Jo Slater
In Memoriam

Greville had been unwell for some time and sadly passed away two months before he would have turned 90. He had very fond memories of his time at Trent College and had played an active part in organising Old Tridents Society gatherings in London.

Greville was born in Sheffield to a working-class family and arrived at Trent College, aged 13, on a place funded by his local authority under the 1944 Education Act. He often spoke of his time at Trent, where he excelled as equally at rugby as he did academics. From Trent College he went on to Christ Church, University of Oxford, where he read PPE. He spent much of his time there also playing rugby and perhaps a nod to his future career, working on the student newspaper ‘Cherwell’.

Greville was a man of many talents, whose contributions left an indelible mark on broadcasting and beyond. Following a short spell teaching, he enjoyed a career at the BBC, which spanned decades, during which he brought insight, wit, and intelligence to his work in current affairs. Starting out as a studio manager, working on the programmes such as The Goon Show and Hancock’s Half Hour, he moved into current affairs radio, producing and occasionally presenting, and playing a pivotal role in shaping iconic programmes that became staples of British radio, including World at One, of which he was one of the first producers, and The World Tonight. He moved into the World Service and, reflecting his dedication to high-quality journalism, became Deputy Head of Current Affairs successfully negotiating with the Foreign Office for increased funding. Greville’s ability to engage with some of the most notable figures of his time, including Margaret Thatcher, Joe Biden, Albert Speer, Denis Healy and Tony Benn, was matched by his talent for asking the probing questions that illuminated the issues of the day. Greville added author to his many talents, writing a book about the retail industry titled ‘Nation of Shopkeepers’ (1970).

Beyond his professional achievements, Greville’s personal life was marked by his love for his family and his diverse interests. His marriage to Brenda, whom he met at the BBC, was a partnership filled with love and shared pursuits. Together, they raised their children, Timothy and Diana, in their loving home in Dulwich, South London. Greville’s enthusiasm for life was evident in his later years, as he channelled his passion for wine into organising memorable wine tours of France, with his son, for the Dulwich Wine Society.

Greville will be remembered for his intelligence, creativity, and dedication to his work. Those who knew him will fondly recall his warmth and enthusiasm, as well as the significant impact he made in his field and community. His passing is a sad loss, but his life and achievements leave a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

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Trent College and The Elms,
Derby Road, Long Eaton,
Nottingham, NG10 4AD