Our headline speaker is undoubtedly best known as the original drummer in The Clash, on whose seminal debut album, ‘The Clash’ he was credited as ‘Tory Crimes’. He left the band in 1977 but was back with a vengeance in ‘82 for the UK and US Casbah Club and Combat Rock US tours and another one supporting The Who.

Outside The Clash, Terry’s drumming career has been no less impressive, with the likes of Hanoi Rocks, Billy Idol and Black Sabbath. So what’s all this about ‘Dr Chimes’? you might ask… Well, the title of Terry’s memoir refers to Terry’s parallel career since 1994 as a chiropractor. He’s also a compelling public speaker with a successful line in chiropractic seminars. So the book’s title is allusion to what appears to be a dual personality… Surely the crazy muso bashing the drums in a succession of punk and heavy metal rock bands couldn’t possibly be the same person as the one offering kind words of wisdom and compassion to the sick? Well, yes it is – as you’ll find out today!

The book includes dozens of true stories ranging from wild antics on the road with a touring rock band to the challenges of carving out an entirely new career – and Terry will be signing copies today as well as putting in a guest appearance later with Clash tribute band Clash City Robbers!

Jonno is one of the founders of CircleBe, a platform inspired by the belief that meaningful conversation still matters deeply in modern life. Passionate about books, storytelling and human connection, Jonno is particularly interested in the ways literature creates emotional resonance between people across time, distance and experience. An avid reader of biographies, autobiographies and philosophical writing, she is fascinated by how stories shape us and begin conversations around identity, perspective and self-understanding. Her work with CircleBe grew from a simple question: How do we create more opportunities for the conversations that genuinely matter to continue? circlebe.com

‘The Big Shot: Photographs by Greg Brennan’ showcases the work of one of Britain’s most celebrated press photographers, with an intimate look at three decades of celebrity, entertainment and major events. From Hollywood and music legends to sporting greats, fashion visionaries and members of the British royal family, Greg has spent a lifetime chasing every opportunity to provide the public with rare behind-the-scenes insights, capturing encounters with the likes of Jack Nicholson, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lady Gaga, Kate Moss and Queen Elizabeth II. Told in the photographer’s own words, with an accompanying narrative by his son Dylan, this is not only an outstanding photographic record of headline-making people and events, but also a deeply personal account of a photographer’s pursuit of the perfect shot – sometimes decades in the making. Featuring over 100 photographs, it’s a stunning parade of famous faces and the story of Brennan’s mission to reveal something of the individuals behind the most public of personas.

Meet Shaun Pinner, a decorated British Army veteran who fought alongside Ukrainian forces, survived Russian captivity, and returned home with an unbreakable spirit. Shaun served in the British Army in Bosnia and Northern Ireland, but his sense of duty called him far beyond his own borders. Moved by the country’s fight for freedom, Shaun enlisted with the Ukrainian Forces — where he faced the harsh realities of modern warfare, was captured by Russian forces and spent months enduring torture and psychological warfare.

Today, talking about his brutally honest, thrilling and chilling book, he shares his battle-tested insights on resilience, survival, and leadership — lessons forged under the most brutal conditions imaginable.

Talented artist, illustrator, children’s author and publisher Pauline is best known as creator of Saddletank Books, a popular series of illustrated children’s storybooks – ‘True Engine Stories’ – that bring real, historic steam locomotives to life through fun and educational true tales. Pauline’s vibrant watercolour illustrations light up her detailed historical research to spark children’s interest in engineering, geography, and history. Her books are uniquely based on real-life steam engines from heritage railways across the British Isles and beyond. Pauline talks today about how Saddletank Books began, shares insights on how she creates her books and on the fascinating history of the steam engines she brings so vividly to life. Many of her books will be on sale at the festival – and also online retailers and Hertford Tourist Office

CEO and founder of the Literary and Multimedia Agency Agent Fox Media, Rick has served on the Hertford Club committee for over two years. This is Rick’s third year interviewing at the festival, having introduced and interviewed an array of his colourful clients including John Lyons, Neil Pearson, Sara Challice, Stephen Gillen and Helen Lederer.

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Rick’s interviews are thorough and full of fun, leading questions helping to uncover the real personalities and stories behind his guests’ public biogs. 

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https://www.agentfoxmedia.com/