British broadcaster, journalist, author, and television presenter Jeremy Paxman
Rottweiler interrogator Jeremy Paxman and hit West End playwright Michael Frayn are among the speakers as The Upper Room’s popular lectures move online this spring.
The Upper Room was one of the nominated charities of the Mayor of Hammersmith & Fulham in 2019-20 and is financially supported by Hammersmith & Fulham Council. The Shepherds Bush charity performs important work supporting socially excluded and economically disadvantaged people.
Launching this year’s talks is national treasure Clare Balding, talking – among other things – about her new book, Heroic Animals.
“The book features 100 amazing animals and the stories behind their achievements,” she explained, adding that she will also be chatting about women’s sport, children’s literacy and her own broadcasting career. “I’m looking forward to taking questions from the audience,” she added.
The lecture series at The Upper Room – based at St Saviour’s Church in Cobbold Road – has become a fixture in the local calendar, supporting the charity as it provides 25,000 meals a year to homeless people and works to make the socially disadvantaged economically independent.
Past speakers from west London have included Matthew Price, Misha Glenny, Lord Dubs and Lord Willetts.
TV’s most versatile presenter Clare Balding will be in conversation with former BBC media correspondent Torin Douglas on Tuesday 16 March from 8pm-9.15pm. Tickets for the online event are £10, you’ll be sent the link and can submit questions. Book here on the Chiswickbuzz website.
Playwright Michael Frayn, best known for Noises Off, Copenhagen and Democracy, will speak on 21 April, with University Challenge quizmaster and ex-Newsnight presenter Jeremy Paxman giving you a starter for 10 on 19 May.
If you miss any of the livestreams, you can still watch afterwards.
