Michael Cole (public relations) facts for kids

Michael Dexter Cole, born in March 1943, is a well-known former journalist. He used to work for the BBC television as a reporter, including being a royal correspondent. After leaving the BBC, he became a director for Harrods, a famous department store. He also worked as a spokesperson for its owner, Mohamed Al Fayed.

Michael Cole's Journalism Career

Michael Cole started his work in newspapers. Later, he moved into television reporting. In 1969, he joined the BBC's local news program called Look East.

In 1973, he was one of three reporters sent by the BBC to cover the Yom Kippur War. This was a conflict in the Middle East. He reported from the Israeli side. This was his first big assignment after moving to London.

Cole also reported on the career of Margaret Thatcher. She became the leader of the Conservative Party in 1975. He was present at important events. For example, he reported on the rescue of Norman Tebbit. This happened after a major incident at Brighton's Grand Hotel in 1984.

Reporting on the Royal Family

Michael Cole also worked as a BBC Royal Correspondent. This meant he reported on the British Royal Family.

In 1987, Cole accidentally shared some information. He mentioned parts of the Royal Christmas Message before it was officially released. This message was from the Queen. It seemed to refer to a sad event that happened on Remembrance Day.

Cole quickly told his employer what had happened. News headlines called him "Cole the Mole." But his friend, James Whitaker, said Cole only spoke generally. He did not reveal any secrets. The BBC apologized to the Queen for the mistake. Cole was not fired. He continued to work for the BBC for another 10 months. He then moved to report on media and arts topics.

Later Career and Public Relations

Michael Cole met Mohamed Al Fayed in 1987. This was while Cole was working on a BBC show. The show was about the Duke and Duchess of Windsor.

Cole joined Harrods in 1988 after leaving the BBC. He worked there as the director of public affairs. This meant he managed how the public saw Harrods. He also spoke for Mohamed Al Fayed. Cole retired from his full-time role in 1998. However, he continued to work for Al Fayed in other ways.

In 2008, Cole shared information at an official inquiry. This inquiry looked into the deaths of Diana, Princess of Wales and Dodi Fayed. Dodi was Mohamed Al Fayed's son.

In 2012, he gave a lecture at Westminster Hall. This is a famous building in London. The lecture was about the role of the Crown and the Commonwealth.

Today, Michael Cole leads his own company. It is called Michael Cole & Company. This company focuses on public relations and broadcasting. He has also written articles for the East Anglian Daily Times. In 1999, he appeared on a BBC quiz show called Have I Got News for You.