Gordon Burns broadcaster gives astonishing insights into covering the Troubles in N. Ireland

Gordon Burns is a journalist and broadcaster who started his TV career in Northern Ireland, where he was thrust into the job of presenting the nightly ITV news programme just before the Troubles started and soon found himself interviewing leading politicians and figures representing both sides of the conflict.

He gives a vivid and riveting account of some of the personalities he dealt with, including the Reverend Ian Paisley and Conservative Prime Minister Edward Heath.

He later went on to present local news programmes in the North West of England and lived in Manchester for many years before returning to his home city of Belfast.

In this evening's talk however he concentrates solely on his time reporting in Northern Ireland and tells us about some shocking events, where his only personal safety was put at risk. He does a remarkably good impersonation of the Reverend Ian Paisley and speaks with humour and frankness.

He explains why John Hume should be given greater recognition for his role in the Northern Ireland peace process.

We were very privileged to have as our guest one of the UK's most experienced broadcasters and a well-loved TV personality in the North West.

He reminded us that he retired from BBC North West Tonight at the age of 70 and will be 79 at his next birthday.