Author Stephen Walker
Two Ballymena writers will discuss the legacy of the Nobel Laureate John Hume at a special event at the Braid Theatre later this week.
Author Stephen Walker and screenwriter Declan Lawn will discuss the new book 'John Hume: The Persuader' which is a new biography about the former SDLP leader.
The book written by Stephen Walker is based on 100 interviews including previously unpublished conversations with John Hume. The Irish Times described it as ‘the definitive biography of John Hume ‘ and RTE said the book was ‘ superb’. It has received critical acclaim in recent weeks and has become a best seller.
Walker and Lawn were both brought up in Ballymena and went on to become BBC reporters. They both worked for the long running current affairs programme Spotlight and Declan Lawn also worked for the BBC One programme Panorama. Declan is now a successful screenwriter and is the creator and writer of the popular Blue Lights series on BBC One.
The two writers will discuss the book at the Braid Theatre in Ballymena on Wednesday 6 December at 7:30pm at an event organised by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.
Walker, who left BBC Northern Ireland after a 34-year-long career earlier this year, is a former political correspondent with the corporation.
He covered the Troubles, the peace process and Brexit. He is a former journalist of the year and the author of four books.
Speaking to Love Ballymena, Stephen Walker said he was delighted to be appearing in Ballymena.
“It is a great thrill to be back in my home town. I am really looking forward to talking about the book with Declan and hearing what people have to say.
"It promises to be a great evening and I am particularly looking forward to seeing so many friends there. Ballymena means a lot to Declan and I. In the wonderful Braid building I have no doubt it will be a very special evening”.
Declan Lawn
Declan Lawn said:
"I'm delighted to be discussing The Persuader - which is a fascinating book - with my old friend Stephen Walker. And to be doing it in the town where we both grew up makes it all the better.”
Tickets for the event on Wednesday 6 December are available from The Braid website.