Pictured: Edward de Bono

Matthew Bannister on

Edward De Bono, the psychologist who advocated lateral thinking – and sold the concept to companies around the world.

Paul Van Doren, the American businessman whose Vans sneakers were adopted by skateboarders, making him a multi-millionaire.

Alastair Hanton OBE, who set up the National Girobank and developed direct debits to allow greater access to banking before becoming a campaigner for ethical investing and greener transport.

Violetta Elvin, the Russian ballerina who made her name as a rival to Dame Margot Fonteyn at the Royal Ballet.

Producer: Neil George

Interviewed guest: Sarah Tucker

Interviewed guest: Steve Van DorenInterviewed guest: Nicholas SmithInterviewed guest: Angus HantonInterviewed guest: Raffaele LauroInterviewed guest: Ronald HyndTranslator: Martin Esposito

Archive clips used: Logical and Lateral, Radio 4 29/12/1976; Today, Radio 4 29/04/1976; Fast Times at Ridgemont High, directed by Amy Heckerling, Universal Pictures 1982; LA Olympics Opening Ceremony, ABC News 1984; Alastair Hanton Oral History, The Hanton Family 2021.