Tribute to Colin Jerwood

I’ve left this a few days because I simply couldn’t find the words. And as a writer, that’s a tough situation to be in. The bands you’re lucky enough to collide with in your youth are the bands who shape you forever. And the band I collided with and found a home with was Conflict. My first faltering steps into vegetarianism, direct action, critical thinking and anti-war were supported, illuminated and strengthened by Conflict. The songs taught me a fresh way of thinking and also expressed venomously and beautifully the frustration I was feeling. And it’s never left me. I could bang on endlessly but I’ll simply say thank you to Colin and the rest of the band for screaming down the barriers so I could see more clearly. Never underestimate your influence and how much you mean to me, and people like me. Your work has made a real difference. With love and sympathy to you all at what must be the toughest of times. I hold you in my heart. X