I've mentioned before how important the Ilford in Conversation talks tend to be - they manage to remain current, honest, and present a depth that is far more than the usual talking points. The guests have been relevant, the audience (largely) sensible and all this with a sense of intimacy that can actually obscure how special and valuable this forum is.
Take tonight's topic for example - yes we may each have some preliminary knowledge into the hunger strikes being held by the Filton 24 but to hear accounts from those closest to them added a dimension you can't get by following social media accounts and reading blogs. I learned plenty over what I already knew, but the real value was in having the story shared.
The evening held no surprises, but that's okay - this particular subject matter wasn't about shock and awe. However if my suspicion about how many such forums have been held covering the topic holds (that they can be counted on one hand), the fact that we were fortunate enough to be present in one is of value enough.
