Derek Banham

Derek Banham was born in London in 1931. While still as school he attended evening classes in Drama and Stage Production. He was a student at Wimbledon School of Art between 1948-1952 getting a National Diploma in Illustration. His National Service was in the R.A.F. where he was commissioned and worked as Wing Adjutant and Station Adjutant at Biggin Hill. He joined R.S. Theatres Ltd. in 1954 and worked in every capacity from front of house manager to costume designer in Repertory, Variety and Pantomime until the company closed down in 1956. A spell as a commercial designer for John Waddington Ltd. followed, as well as freelance direction of amateur drama. In 1959 he joined the Masius and Ferguson advertising agency and began to specialise in Film and Television, writing, designing, producing and directing commercials. In 1962 he was invited to teach Film at St. Martin's School of Art. He helped to plan and initiate the Film Course and lectured part-time for the next three years. In 19