He spent almost two decades out of the spotlight, although the US music industry honouredhim in 1989, inducting him into its Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame.
As well as his film-making, Sir Alan also served as Chairman of the Board of Governors of the British Film Institute, was the founding chairman of the UK Film Council in 1999 and was a founding member of the Directors Guild of Great Britain, which has since honouredhim with its Lifetime Achievement Award.