David Hammond (broadcaster) facts for kids
David Hammond (1928-2008) was a famous broadcaster, documentary film-maker, and folk-singer from Northern Ireland. He was known for making films about life in his home country.
About David Hammond
David Hammond was born in Belfast in 1928. He went to school at Methodist College Belfast and then trained to be a teacher at Stranmillis College. He taught in primary schools for several years. Later, he became a teacher at Orangefield Boys' Secondary School. Some of his students became very well-known, including the singer Van Morrison and the writer Brian Keenan.
His Time at BBC
In 1964, David joined BBC Northern Ireland in their education department. Here, he worked with others to create many films about life in Northern Ireland. These films helped people learn about the history and culture of the area. Some of his notable works included Today and Yesterday in Northern Ireland and Explorations. He also made a special film about the Belfast shipyards called Steel Chest, Nail in the Boot, and the Barking Dog.
After the BBC
David Hammond left the BBC in 1986. He then started his own film company called Flying Fox. Through this company, he produced many films that won awards. One of his famous films was Dusty Bluebells (1971). This film was about the fun street games that children played in Belfast.
Awards and Recognition
David Hammond's films and his life's work were celebrated at the Celtic Film Festival in Belfast in 2003. This festival honors great work in film and television from Celtic countries.
BBC Northern Ireland also created a special six-part TV series about him. It was called David Hammond’s Ireland. This series explored his life and all the amazing things he achieved. Later, Dublin City University gave him an honorary doctorate, which is a special award for his contributions.
