Patrick Beech 

One of the early characters at the BBC's Broadcasting House, Bristol, Pat Beech spent many years as assistant head of west regional programmes. Responsible for building up and running the television output of the region, Pat spent many years begging and borrowing the equipment and resources needed to further Bristol's programming.

In the process of getting the early unit off the ground, Pat searched and discovered many new talents, helping Leslie Jackman to launch his popular clubroom item on the monthly children's television series, Out of Doors. He also spotted the potential of the young Eric Ashby after noticing a short article he had written in The Countryman on the photography of wild deer.

Helping establish the BBC Natural History Unit in 1957, Pat continued to support it, lobbying for extra money and contributing creatively. It was based on his suggestion that, "Children love animals and they love magic," that the Johnny Morris' fun-filled animal show was christened Animal Magic (1962-1983). He was also a driving force in securing funds to film Chris Parsons' project, The Major, in colour in 1963, a huge boost to the Unit when the medium finally became available nationally.