Cheltenham: The home of online security in Britain

Cheltenham can claim to be the home of online security in Britain, according to Ciaran Martin, the Head of the National Cyber Security Centre and Board Member of GCHQ.

Delivering a keynote speech at the Pitch@Palace event at Cheltenham Racecourse, he said: “What is happening here is of huge national importance, and huge importance to our place in the world, and to our prosperity and security. With GCHQ located here, the NCSC within it, and the proliferation of cyber security businesses there is plenty of innovation.”

Ciaran paid tribute to The Duke of York for his ongoing support and interest in digital and cyber security.

“Here in Cheltenham we are in the cradle of an exciting new phase in the history of digital Britain. We have been tasked by the Government and the National Security Council to make the UK the safest place to live and do business online.”

It’s taken time to build meaningful collaboration with business, but as cyber threats, and the country’s understanding of them has evolved, so organisations are now working ever closer together, he said.

“Working with Wayra and Pitch@Palace, The NCSC is collaborating exceptionally well on some exciting new initiatives which are now making a difference” he said. “We are getting global attention for what this country is doing. And at a crucial point in the country’s history, having that global leadership in cyber security matters.”

He added: “The ideas pitched here and later at the Place, will be crucial to cracking the strategic challenge, which is critical to our future economic success. It is also crucial to the safety of all of us and our children, our freedom and our way of life.”