Speakers

During her early twenties, Valerie was one of the top voice-over artists in television commercials, worked as an actress for five years in the theatre, fronted several television advertising campaigns and then became a household name presenting much loved television programmes including Blue Peter, Nationwide, Val Meets the VIPs, Tonight, Tonight in Town and the hard hitting Money Programme and not forgetting the memorable Blue Peter Special Assignments, all for BBC Television, followed by PM for BBC Radio 4. Additionally, she has made many guest appearances on the nation’s favourite TV shows and went on to present programmes on such diverse topics  as travel, history, alcohol abuse, violence in present day society and a game show.

Besides her broadcasting work, Valerie finds time to host numerous corporate conferences, DVDs, awards ceremonies and has fronted many advertising campaigns - McCain’s Oven Chips, Chef and Brewer, Mobility Scooters and Barchester Retirement Homes.  Valerie has promoted CBeebies, Ladybird Books, Children’s Safety with ROSPA, Age Concern and GEM Motor Assist.

She has also made a wonderful niche in travel writing with the national press and popular magazines, as well as finding time to support several Charities.              

Valerie has filmed with Hollywood stars, politicians, captains of industry and royalty, as well as many children and unforgettable animals but has always managed to do so with great charm, aplomb and total professionalism.

Valerie gives after dinner speeches but the one everyone asks for is entitled “Some Times in My Life”, which regales the diners with various fun and some serious events that have happened during her remarkable career.

Her life’s work has been honoured twice, firstly by “This is Your Life”, which the public watched avidly and then being bestowed with an OBE, by Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth ii.