2001: Emmy Award for outstanding achievement in technological advancement

Mike Croll, the leader of the team, in New York City, 16 October 2001.

The BBC has been awarded a prestigious Emmy by the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences for "outstanding achievement in technological advancement".

Presented at a a Gala ceremony at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City, the award recognises the pioneering work of the BBC's Research & Development department in the late 1980's on high-definition up-conversion, a process which enables broadcasters to convert programmes made in standard definition format to the new high-definition format which is being increasingly used, especially in the United States

Peter Bury, Head of BBC Research & Development, said, "We are delighted to receive this award. The BBC's R&D team continues to make a huge contribution to the development of technology which supports the broadcasting industry in Britain, Europe and throughout the world. We are particularly pleased that our contribution has been recognised in this way by our colleagues in the United States.

Ashley Highfield, Director of BBC New Media & Technology, added: "it is a great credit to the BBC - and particularly to those in BBC Research & Development - to have won this prestigious accolade. It reaffirms the BBC's worldwide reputation as an innovative broadcaster, constantly pushing the boundaries of technology".

Mike Croll, the leader of the team that developed the process said "I am very grateful to the Academy for their recognition of this important fundamental work." He mentions in particular the dedication of Martin Weston who applied himself tirelessly to this work and to other managers including Bruce Moffat and Richard Sanders who maintained confidence in this work over many years.