BBC’s Huw Edwards grilled by twins on covering Queen’s funeral and South London life

For a man who is so often used to asking the questions, BBC News’ legendary presenter Huw Edwards got a taste of what it’s like to be the one answering them when a pair of twins grilled him on life in South London.

Laila and Isaac Motalib-Haque, both aged 12, are students at Kingsdale Foundation School in Alleyn Road, Dulwich, and write for their school paper The Kingsdale Telegraph.

Mr Edwards is a Dulwich resident and accepted the request from journalists at the school paper for an interview, which Laila and Isaac were lucky enough to conduct.

Laila said: “We had the incredible opportunity to interview broadcasting icon, Huw Edwards for our school newspaper.

“Huw was pleasant and helpful and answered all of our questions about his journalism career which has spanned over almost four decades.”

Isaac added: “We spoke to him about news, coverage of political events but also the many royal occasions he has covered for the BBC over the years.

“He has presented the King Charles III’s coronation, the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, Prince William and Prince Harry’s weddings and The Queen’s funeral.

“Huw gave us some great tips on how to be a news journalist and presenter like himself. It’s great to know he loves walking his dog in Crystal Palace Park – which is a great local open green space to play and explore in.”

Here is what the famous broadcaster had to say on life in South London:

L&I: What do you love the most about living in Dulwich?

HE: “I like the green, open spaces of the local parks and the nice community of Dulwich. I also love walking up to Crystal Palace Park which I think is one of the best local parks in London. My dog loves it, anyway! And although there’s no tube station, it’s a very easy 12 minute train journey to Victoria, so it’s not as ‘remote’ as some people seem to think it is.

L&I: Of all the royal events you have covered, Which did you find most interesting and why?

HE: The state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II was on a scale that few will ever forget. There was a huge audience worldwide. I had prepared in detail and I was so impressed by the meticulous work of the armed forces.

L&I: You announced the death of the Queen on the BBC. How did that feel both on a personal and professional level?

HE: It was a surreal experience. We had prepared so much over the years but nothing prepares you for the reality. I was aware that people would be watching that clip in years to come. I just wanted to get it right, to show respect and to empathise with all those watching who felt sadness at the news. 

L&I:  What was the most memorable news story that you broadcasted, apart from the Queen’s death?

HE: There are many memorable events. They include the 9/11 terror attacks in New York, the terror attacks in Paris in December 2015, President Obama’s visit to the UK in 2016, the London 2012 Olympic Games, the royal wedding of William and Kate in 2011… the list goes on. It’s impossible to choose just one.

Mr Edwards interviewing Barack Obama (Picture: Jeff Overs/BBC News)

L&I: Of all the global political events you have covered – which was your personal favourite to cover and why?

HE: Obama’s inauguration was history in the making, as was Mandela’s first visit to the UK as president of South Africa, along with Pope Benedict’s visit to the UK in 2010. They are all big events. Seeing Margaret Thatcher leave Downing Street was a big moment, as was Tony Blair’s arrival with the biggest parliamentary majority on record.

L&I: Have you always wanted to be a journalist? If not, was your childhood dream job?

HE: I wanted to be a journalist at a young age but lacked the confidence to think it would be realistic. I think the lesson is that we should pursue our ambitions and chase our dreams.

L&I: You’ve made programmes and written a book about Welsh history. Do you enjoy discovering and sharing interesting facts about your Welsh heritage? As a Londoner, how do you stay connected to Wales?

HE: I think everyone should be aware of their own story and roots. Diversity is a strength, and we should celebrate it. My Welsh heritage has and still defines me as a person. I love studying Welsh history and finding out more about the nation’s history. As a Londoner, I am part of a big, vibrant Welsh community in London. I hear lots of Welsh spoken and I have many Welsh friends scattered across London. I love the melting pot of cultures in London. It is one of the glories of the capital.”

Pictured top: (L-R) Huw Edwards with Isaac and Laila Motalib-Haque (Picture: Regina Motalib)