Sir David Nicholas

Sir David Nicholas

It has been announced that David Nicholas died on Saturday 4th June.

David had joined ITN in 1960 as a scriptwriter, and then worked his way up to be Deputy Editor, Editor, Chief Executive and Chairman.

A private, family-only funeral is being held in July, and there are discussions about a memorial service being organised for later in the year in London.

ITN put out a social media message saying:

“We are deeply saddened at the death of former ITN Editor-in-Chief, Sir David Nicholas. A hugely important figure in our history and one of the great TV innovators, his pioneering techniques continue to influence broadcast news today.”

ITN CEO Deborah Turness said:

“His influence over the way news was covered saw ITN rise from being the underdog to the BBC to become its equal – and often superior – competitor.”

An ITN press release summarised David’s career:

“Sir David was the producer of the first ever News at Ten, which was originally designed as a 12-week show.
He broadcast some of the most iconic moments of the 20th century; he organised coverage of the Apollo moon landings, covered US presidential elections, UK elections, Vietnam, Middle East conflicts, oil crises, industrial unrest in Britain, the Falklands War and war in Afghanistan.

He was also responsible for many of the ground-breaking front of camera developments which were copied by rivals.”

His son James and daughter Helen issued a personal statement:

“Our father led a very long and full life. It has been very comforting to receive so many heart felt messages of condolence and it is wonderful to know how highly respected he was by his many TV news colleagues and friends.”

The ITN press release can be read here.