Talks and tours promise to whet residents’ historical appetites

Organisers of the first ever Kilburn History Festival have unveiled a host of exciting activities which promise to change the way residents look at their community.

Residents can have their historical appetites whetted at a series of talks about on Ancient and Medieval Kilburn, the rail history of the area, and the famous stars who have lived in the community over the years.

And local historians will give a series of guided tours which will take in the landmarks which have helped to shape, and reflect, Kilburn’s history.

Ed Fordham, a local historian based in Kilburn who has organised the festival, said: “As most people know Kilburn is divided between Camden and Brent local authorities and in part in Westminster Council as well.

“This has had the effect of splitting the historical records – whilst Willesden and Hampstead, for example, have been well documented and researched Kilburn has been neglected.

“This festival, working in conjunction with the Historic Kilburn Plaque Scheme, seeks to raise the profile of the ancient, diverse, and rich historical tapestry that exists in the local area.”

The events are part of the four day long Kilburn Festival, which has also just announced the billing for its film screenings.

The four day film journey through Kilburn will include a series of international film screenings at the Tin Tabernacle Church in Cambridge Avenue and the premier of the Kilburn Older Voices Exchange’s 10th anniversary campaigning documentary.

It culminates at the Tricycle Cinema in Kilburn High Road with a special screening of zany film “Brainwash” and “Speaking from the Heart” a film for Clean Break about women prisoners creating their own play.

Hampstead and Kilburn MP Glenda’s film, “Speaking from the Heart”.

The Kilburn Festival runs from Thursday July 7 till Sunday July 10.

Anyone who wants to get involved should contact Janet at jgrauberg@googlemail.com