Alvar Lidell, English journalist (b. 1908)

Tord Alvar Quan Lidell MBE (Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire), born on 11 September 1908 and passing away on 7 January 1981, was a distinguished figure in British broadcasting, primarily recognized as a prominent BBC radio announcer and newsreader.

Lidell's career at the British Broadcasting Corporation began in 1930, where he initially served as a continuity announcer. His precise diction and measured delivery quickly established him as a reliable voice on the airwaves. However, it was during the tumultuous period of the Second World War, spanning from 1939 to 1945, that Tord Lidell's presence became truly iconic. As a principal newsreader, his unique and highly distinctive voice resonated across the nation, becoming inextricably linked with the dissemination of vital wartime news.

In an era when radio was the primary source of immediate information for the vast majority of the population, Lidell's calm, authoritative, and unflustered delivery provided a much-needed sense of reassurance amidst the pervasive anxiety and uncertainty of conflict. His voice was not merely transmitting facts; it was a steadying presence, counteracting propaganda and instilling confidence in the official narrative. He was a familiar sound in homes across Britain, often heard delivering the crucial "Nine O'Clock News," a program that became a nightly ritual for many seeking updates from the front lines and vital governmental announcements.

His profound contribution to public service during this critical period was formally recognized with the award of an MBE, a testament to his unwavering dedication and the significant impact of his work in maintaining national morale and providing accurate, timely information to the public under immense pressure.

Following the war, Tord Lidell continued his impactful career as a BBC newsreader, maintaining his high standards and reputation for clarity and impartiality. He remained a trusted voice on British radio until his retirement in 1968, marking nearly four decades of service to broadcasting. His legacy endures as a symbol of the BBC's crucial role during wartime and the power of a single, distinctive voice to inform, reassure, and unite a nation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Tord Lidell

Who was Tord Lidell?

Tord Lidell was a renowned BBC radio announcer and newsreader, born in 1908 and passed away in 1981, most famously associated with delivering news during the Second World War.

Why was Tord Lidell's voice significant during WWII?

During the Second World War, his distinctive, calm, and authoritative voice became synonymous with BBC news broadcasts, providing a crucial source of reliable information and reassurance to the British public amidst wartime anxieties.

What does MBE stand for in relation to Tord Lidell?

MBE stands for Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. Tord Lidell was awarded this honour in recognition of his significant services to broadcasting, particularly his vital role as a wartime newsreader.

When did Tord Lidell retire from the BBC?

Tord Lidell retired from his extensive career as a BBC newsreader in 1968, after nearly 40 years of dedicated service.