THE extraordinary friendship between Pat Magee, a member of the IRA responsible for the Brighton bombing, and Jo Berry CBE, whose father was killed in the attack, is the subject of a new documentary.

‘The Hardest Bridge’ is due to be screened at Frome Town Hall on Thursday, March 26, at 7 pm.

The screening is free to attend however a suggested donation of £5 will go to the charity Building Bridges for Peace.

Directed by award-winning British-Palestinian filmmaker Dr Imad Karam, the film charts the unlikely development of a longstanding friendship and professional collaboration between Jo Berry and Pat Magee, who met following Pat’s release from prison as part of the Good Friday Agreement in 1998.

They have since shared a platform more than 300 times, promoting peaceful conflict resolution, compassion and dialogue, even in the most difficult circumstances.

Dr Karam said: “This film gives a profound insight into a shared journey of forgiveness and transformation which is so relevant for the divided world we live in today.”

The screening is followed by a Q&A with Jo Berry CBE and the film’s director Dr Imad Karam.

Jo Berry is a founder member of Frome community group Let’s Talk, who offer regular free workshops and meetings at the town hall, applying the principles of non-judgemental communication and active listening to tricky conversations of any kind, large or small.

She said: “'I am thrilled to be bringing this unique documentary to Let’s Talk group as it aligns with our values and mission. My work is about rehumanising each other and this film is a powerful talking point for this essential work.”

Let’s Talk are hosting a workshop titled Shame, Trauma-Informed Practice and Restorative Approaches on Thursday, March 19, at 6.30 pm, and can also support organisations to develop effective and respectful communication techniques.

Free tickets are available at tinyurl.com/lets-talk-19-march