I WAS THERE: THE PEOPLE’S REVIEW 2006

29 December, 2006 by The_Boss

This special programme, presented by ITV news anchor Katie Derham is the first ever look at the year from the perspective of those that were there when events happened. It is a unique perspective on the stories of 2006. Using footage and photos shot by people who experienced the news first hand it will highlight the growing impact of citizen journalism and video sharing websites.

Starting with a nationwide campaign I Was There has encouraged viewers to gather and submit footage and stills giving a perspective that the professionals couldn’t get – on the ground, up close and personal of many events of the year.

Featuring footage from the Blackburn protests in favour of the Muslim veil to fox hunts that continue despite the ban, from civilians & bloggers lifting the lid on the realities of war to a community caught up in the war on terror – we have the footage from the front line.

At home and abroad the web has helped ordinary people make their voices heard despite political spin. When Tory Party leader, David Cameron launched a new weblog it prompted a rash of spoofs also posted on the net within hours. When Labour’s John Prescott took to the dance floor at a Labour conference party an amateur film of the event was posted online within days. Even President Bush’s entourage failed to stop a different perspective being filmed of his election rally.

I was there will also feature celebrity footage including George Michael caught snoozing at the wheel of his car, images of Top Gear presenter Richard Hammond before and after his ill-fated speed stunt and the triumphant return of Kylie and Take That.

I Was There: The People’s Review takes a personal look at how the news affected people throughout the UK from the Queen’s Birthday celebrations to bird flu, the whale stranded up the Thames to local Post Office closures people were recording these moments for posterity.
I Was There: the People’s Review 2006 is produced by Endemol UK’s factual arm, Cheetah Television - the company behind ITV’s forthcoming TV event Extinct.