British Ceremonial Arts Ltd.

Peter Leslie Edwards, CVO

14th November 1941 - 6th August 2007

Peter Leslie Edwards CVO, founder of British Ceremonial Arts Limited, peacefully passed away in the early hours of Monday 6th August 2007 following a long fight against cancer. He will be sadly missed by his family, friends and all his colleagues who had the pleasure of working with him during his career, which started at the BBC in the 1960's.

From 1968, Peter was responsible for recording The Queen's Christmas Messages. He was extremely proud to serve Her Majesty and even whilst battling with cancer continued recording the message. His last recording was in December 2006, which was his 38th Christmas Message.

Peter left the BBC at the end of the 1980's to embark on a freelance filming career and following his own Investiture in 1985, where he was made a Member of The Royal Victorian Order by HM The Queen, Peter begun discussions with the Royal Household on producing a film of this very special occasion. In addition to these films Peter produced the outside broadcasts of The United Nations' 50th Anniversary at Westminster Hall, The Gulf War Memorial Service in St Paul's Cathedral and the "live" satellite coverage of many State Visits held in Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle.

In 1992 Peter was promoted, by Her Majesty, to Lieutenant of The Royal Victorian Order (LVO) and, in the same year, won a BAFTA for Best Broadcast Sound on the documentary "Elizabeth R". Just before he passed away, Peter was again promoted to Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (CVO) and accepted The Royal Warrant on behalf of BCA, the company he devoted his life to.

Please CLICK HERE to read the kind words of condolence from friends and colleagues.