The legendary editor of the Washington Post who presided over the Watergate investigation that brought down President Nixon is to deliver the Society of Editors lecture at the annual conference in October.

Ben Bradlee, and the investigation that was filmed as All the Presidents’ Men, inspired journalists around the world – many of whom are editors today.

Now joint chairman of the International Advisory Board for Sir Anthony O’Reilly’s Independent Media Group, Bradlee will address the Belfast conference during the opening ceremony.

That will be hosted by Northern Ireland’s First Minister and Nobel Peace Prize Winner, David Trimble and his deputy Seamus Mallon in the historic parliament buildings at Stormont, the scene of many headline-making events over the past 30 years.

Bradlee will join other top media names discussing the big media issues during the conference that will take place between Sunday October 21 and Tuesday October 23.

Other industry speakers lined up include: Roger Alton of The Observer, Roy Greenslade, Clive Jones from Carlton Television, Andrew Marr of the BBC, Alex Marunchak from the News of the World, Charles Moore of The Telegraph, Piers Morgan of The Mirror, Andrew Neil from The Scotsman, Sir Anthony O’Reilly, and the BBC’s Jeff Randell.

SoE president Ed Curran, editor of the Belfast Telegraph said: “I am delighted that we have been able to attract such a great name.

“So many of us were driven on by Ben Bradlee’s achievement and style. There is so much we can learn from his vision and his knowledge of the world’s media.”

“He will be one of many big names who will make this first ever editors’ conference in Belfast a huge success.

“I am looking forward to showing off the new Northern Ireland. It was once rarely out of the headlines. Now it is a new experience.”

More details on the conference can be found at ukeditors.com or call the society office on 01223 304080. Early booking discounts are available until 15 July.

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