Parry promotes peace message

PEACE campaigner Colin Parry JP OBE will visit the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) to talk about conflict and reconciliation to mark the 20th anniversary year of the Warrington bombings.
Colin, who lost his son Tim following the blast on 20 March 1993, will visit UCLan almost 20 years after the bombing, to share how he has campaigned tirelessly to bring divided communities together and help people affected by political violence.
He will also talk about the Tim Parry and Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace charity that was established in 1995 and is the only UK charity that supports victims of terrorism.
“I will relate how the tragic death of my 12-year-old son Tim at the hands of the IRA became the turning point in the search for peace in Northern Ireland” said Colin., (pictured left).
Colin’s key note address is open to the general public and has been arranged by UCLan equality and diversity lecturer Trish Byrne-Roberts. Trish teaches her public service students about issues pertaining to ‘divided societies’ from a local, national and international perspective.
She commented: “In my research I specifically focus on grief, loss and mourning and how we should not forget those who we have lost. What better example can I offer as an example to students than Colin Parry?
“Colin has kept Tim’s memory alive; his work on peace building, peace keeping and truth and reconciliation is insurmountable. Against adversity, Colin continues to inspire so many.
“Through my teaching I aim to not only address how we understand conflict but to illustrate to students the importance of seeking truth and reconciliation as countries that have been in conflict make the transition to become relatively peaceful communities.”
This free event will take place this Thursday, March 7 at UCLan’s Livesey House room 13 from 3.00pm – 5.00pm. To book or for more information please contact David Howard on [email protected] or call 01772 892250.