Ian Waugh is a British broadcaster, historian, and published author with deep roots in the South West of England. Born in Dorset and raised in Devon, Ian’s connection to the region spans generations. He played a role as part of the opening team at DevonAir Radio from 1980 until he quit in 1987, during which time he also assumed the position of Head of Presentation.
Throughout his extensive career in the broadcasting industry, Ian’s voice was heard across various radio and television networks in the UK. Since 1972, audiences have experienced his presence on British independent television stations, as well as some BBC and independent radio outlets. Ian’s professional reach even extended to collaborations with state broadcasters in Europe and Africa.
Ian Waugh is renowned for his expertise in advising individuals seeking information on events and stories from British national and regional newspapers spanning the years between 1750 and 1950. His profound knowledge and passion attract numerous inquiries from individuals around the world, eager to uncover details about their family history, including notable criminals or other significant events.
While news and current affairs hold a special fascination for Ian, he maintains a balanced approach. He starts and ends his day staying informed but avoids becoming consumed by the constant stream of information.
In the early 1990s, Ian faced life-altering challenges. He experienced two debilitating strokes and had to contend with the onset of osteoarthritis, leaving him profoundly disabled. He remains active in his personal life. Ian faces personal challenges in his daily life, particularly in coping with severe osteoarthritis, which significantly impacts his mobility. Moreover, he is a stroke survivor, having weathered the effects of two strokes that have left him partially paralysed.
Driven by his fascination with British modern history, Ian has dedicated himself to writing about various aspects of this captivating subject. His extensive research has led him to create websites that delve into related topics, making him a constant presence in the field.
Despite disability obstacles, Ian remains actively engaged on Twitter (@iwaugh here), where he shares his thoughts and updates with a supportive community. To explore more about Ian Waugh and his various projects, additional information can be accessed here.
“I closely followed the endeavours of the original groups of hopeful individuals in the late 1970s who were making plans to contend for the operation of the radio franchise encompassing Exeter, East Devon, Torbay, and South Devon from 1980 onwards.
When DevonAir (formerly known as Radio Haldon) secured the franchise and initiated their search for presenters, I submitted an application to host the late evening daily programme. Subsequently, I was selected for the role, obtaining the position, and joined the station in October of 1980. About a month later, DevonAir commenced broadcasting. I remained with the station for a period of seven years, although regrettably, I presented my preferred time slot for only three of those years.
In 1983, a new controller assumed the helm and had different plans for my new daytime role. I remained with the station presenting daytime programmes and as Head of Presentation until 1987.
I constructed this website and undertook the research because, in a sense, DevonAir Radio constituted a thread in the tapestry of the county’s history for those 14 years of its overall life.
The impetus for this endeavour doesn’t arise from DevonAir being my former employer, nor does it solely stem from my interest and very long-term involvement in broadcasting. Rather, it is driven by the fact that DevonAir possesses a narrative and historical significance worthy of recounting – an episode, as I’ve mentioned, that emerged, faded away, made a modest impression on Devon’s trajectory, and then vanished permanently. In essence, it’s a matter of history – nothing more, nothing less.”
