Ben Slade

Ben Slade was the longest serving presenter in the history of "Why Don't You?" He first entered the series in 1988 as a member of the Cardiff gang where his distinctive Welsh "Dai Cap" (flat hat) was worn for the first time. This quickly became his trademark. After the first series (directed by David J. Evans) Slade joined the Newcastle gang (Ant McPartlin (of Ant and Dec fame's first TV job) and subsequently 2 Liverpool 'gangs'. These latter programmes were written and directed by Russell T. Davies of recent "Dr. Who" fame.

Slade changed the nature of the programme and his improvised style (encouraged by Davies) contrasted with the scripted lines, makes and films creating more of a dramatic storyline. The ratings during this time were often over 2.5 million which, for children's TV in the mornings, was impressive. Slade last appeared as a guest on the first series directed by Trevor Stephenson-Long before pursuing other avenues.

After several TV appearances, most recently on ITV1 Wales' Presenters (hosted by Gabby Logan) Slade pursued his teaching career and is now one of the youngest secondary headteachers in the country. Slade is currently Principal of a college in Cambridge where he has been instrumental in driving the results up and supporting the Performing Arts Status. He writes periodically for the Times Educational Supplement. Ben is renowned for his outgoing personality, ebullient teaching style and keen appreciation for the unusual and absurd.