Peter Taylor CBE in conversation with David Sillito - St Mary's Church

Peter Taylor CBE will be appearing in conversation with BBC Media and Arts Correspondent David Sillito.

Scarborough-born Peter Taylor is a distinguished broadcaster and author. Reporter-turned-de facto contemporary historian, Peter Taylor in addition, has authored 10 books, nine of which in direct parallel to his broadcasting career, further analyse the turbulent decades of the troubled province. His most recent volume on this most profound subject, Operation Chiffon The Secret Story of MI5 & MI6 and The Road to Peace in Ireland, formed the basis of the BBC2 documentary The MI5 Spy and the IRA.

He retired from the BBC in April 2025. His particular niche specialisation in reporting on Northern Ireland over the past half century would emanate from his initial assignment to the province. Bloody Sunday in January 1972 kindled my lifelong fascination with the Irish question and how war might translate into peace, he recalled, hence the dozens of documentaries and nine books.

A multitude of prestigious professional awards and honours that include Lifetime Achievement Awards from both BAFTA and the Royal Television Society have been bestowed upon him. The latest of which being the investiture of a CBE at Windsor Castle by Princess Anne and receiving an Honorary Doctorate from Liverpool Hope University.

You can book your ticket here or you can pay on the door.

This event is part of the Scarborough 400 celebrations.