Leslie Dawes

Dawes explores the lighter side of life

Before Leslie Dawes became a household name for Ulster Television he trained as a navigator at Bishopscourt as WWII began. His ties to Downpatrick flourished both as reporter for the Down Recorder in the 1950s, husband and as long term resident. 

He started out as a professional footballer for his local team before an injury ended that career. Norwich City’s loss was Ulster Television’s gain as he took his passion for sport to broadcasting. He joined the station in the 1960s presenting local news stories and Sportscast. Co-host Gordon Burns suggests the reason he became such a well loved figure, for colleagues and audiences alike, was "he had that vital ingredient every television presenter needs - likability. He was warm, friendly and genuinely nice”. 

Perhaps this is why he was always a favourite reporter to send out on the lighthearted stories. Enjoy this collection of news rushes as Dawes explores skateboarding, private museums, butter sculpting and more.