Ian Waugh: Broadcaster, Historian and Published Author
Here are some key highlights of his career and contributions:
- Broadcasting Career: Ian has worked with various radio and television stations in the UK, Africa, and Europe. He has a long career in broadcasting, having worked with British independent stations, some BBC and independent radio outlets and state broadcasters in countries like Zimbabwe, Malta, and Namibia.
- Historic Research: Ian has a profound passion for British social history, focusing on the lives of ordinary people. He has dedicated himself to preserving personal records such as letters, photographs, and documents, which offer deeper insights into historical events and their impact on the present (more here). His research has led to the creation of websites like “Old British News,” where he explores historical events from 1750 to 1950, uncovering stories often overlooked in mainstream narratives.
- Notable Works: One of his notable works is his research on John “Babbacombe” Lee, a man famously known as “The Man They Couldn’t Hang” due to a series of failed execution attempts. This case has been a key area of his historical investigation.
- Old British News: Ian runs the Old British News website, where he delves into historical events from 1750 to 1950, helping to uncover stories that are often overlooked in mainstream historical narratives.
- Personal Background: Ian was born in Dorset, but his family moved back to Devon when he was three years old. He grew up in West Devon and has a deep connection to the area. His family roots in the county go back many generations that can be traced from the 1500s.