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Dame Joan Bakewell has been named Communicator of the Year by the British Association of Communicators in Business.

The journalist and television presenter has been recognised for her achievements as the Government's czar for older people, a role that was introduced in November last year to give a voice to the older generation.

Once dubbed the 'thinking man's crumpet', Bakewell, 75, was recruited to scrutinise policy and ensure that it does not discriminate against older people. The Government is currently preparing its new Equality Bill, which will see sex, race and age discrimination rolled into one piece of legislation, covering everything from equal pay for women to provision for the elderly in hospitals.

However, she made it clear that she will not simply comment on policies affecting her generation, but also wants to 'celebrate the achievements of older people' and help the middle-aged to prepare for decades of active living.

Dame Joan has a history of breaking through barriers. She came to prominence by challenging the dominance of male presenters with programmes such as Late Night LineUp, and went on to host the documentary series Heart of the Matter and in 2001 wrote and presented Taboo, a series about censorship that dealt frankly with sex and nudity on television. Taboo was referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions by the National Viewers and Listeners Association, now known as Mediawatch.

CiB events director Suzanne Peck commented: 'Joan has never been afraid to tackle the big issues, and her current role as the voice of older people is central to some of the key challenges facing society today. She has always commanded attention and respect through her measured and eloquent communication, and is a most worthy recipient of this award.

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