Hurricane of 87 - LBC Douglas Cameron

For a broadcaster, crisis is memorable. Isolated in one’s studio, in touch with - and insulated from – reality. One commentates on what seems like a parallel world.

In 1987, just hours after Michael Fish, and TV colleagues remembered less well, suggested no hurricane was imminent, it crashed into our Nation. We awoke to atrocious conditions. Radio stations rallied round, disseminating vital information and dispensing comfort. I suspect they also uttered those wonderful wireless words: “don’t go out unless you absolutely have to”.

At LBC, ex-Today presenter Douglas Cameron ruled the roost with his calm authority and distinctive voice. He also served the nation that day, as ever, with his IRN broadcasts. LBC was in the grips of a powercut, served by a generator and some candles. If that situation has never yet arisen in your broadcasting career, you have not lived. Here, he reminisces.