 | | The screen will be displayed in St Mary Redcliffe |
Roger Bennett was one of the West's best-known broadcasters, journalists and musicians. A former Evening Post chief reporter, he came to work at BBC Radio Bristol when it opened in 1970. For 28 years he presented the station's flagship news programme, Morning West, becoming the longest-serving breakfast presenter on radio. Roger had many other talents and was known far and wide in music circles as a highly-accomplished jazz musician, playing soprano saxophone and clarinet with the Blue Notes. He achieved a lifetime ambition when he learned to fly and got his pilot's licence. His deep love for Bristol shone through everything he did. To pay tribute to a much-loved broadcaster, the BBC wanted to create a permanent memorial within the city and has commissioned a stained glass screen which will reflect the life and times of Roger Bennett. Roger liked nothing better than playing his beloved jazz at the St Mary Redcliffe Church Undercroft and the panel will be displayed there to promote music. The design reflects many aspects of Roger's life and personality: it colourfully depicts musical instruments, the sea and Bristol landmarks including the suspension bridge. It is going to take about three months for the panel to be completed, and you will be able to follow Caroline's progress at her workshop in Tetbury via her website. Caroline is working in partnership with furniture maker and designer Martin Lane, who is creating the unique timber framing from English oak which is obtained locally. She will be using glass made by English Antique Glass - last flat glass-blowing works in England - and Bristol-based Creative Glass. | 
