Welcome to walking, talking and happenings in Harlesden with me!
I’m on an adventure – not in Cuba, Bali or the Outer Hebrides – but here in Harlesden where I live. Initially, I’m walking – at dawn, in the afternoon, at night – to find out what’s going on. I intend to encounter strangers, as well as friends and neighbours. I am walking with local resident, documentary maker, Louis Theroux, actor and writer, Alexei Sayle, novelist, Nick Barlay, my son and his girlfriend, filmmakers, Marlon and Tania, recent graduate in journalism, June Mckenzie, my friends from Marseille, Odile and Seirigne, poet, artist, mother and ex gas meter reader, Sue Saunders, friend and Orange Prize shortlister, Monique Roffey, anti-gun crime activist, Michael Saunders, railway enthusiast, Ian Hunt, punk filmmaker and legendary DJ about town, Don Letts.
And then, there will be the happenings. You’ll have to wait and see.
Join me as I walk, talk and investigate Harlesden.
Oh and why is it called Not On Safari In Harlesden? Because I saw this message posted on the White Pride World Wide forum, and it was titled Mine and GF’s (girlfriend’s) Safari In Harlesden: “So I think if any of you need to convince brainwashed whites about the very real dangers of multicultural society up close and personal, then take them to Harlesden.”
I was ‘disgusted of Harlesden’ and this is my riposte…
Hi Rose
just found your blog, i have lived in Harlesden/ Stonebridge all my life..im 52…..a big reggae fan and dub muscian myself..i would love someone to make a documentry about the 60 70s reggae scene in the area..must have had at least 15 record labels outta NW10..maybe one day someone will..bless Alan..
this site might interest you….the pre war swimming pool at the top of church road….the many cinemas in the area at least 5!!!…the pre war railway station at Craven Park Road..loads of pictures..bless Alan
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?sk=2361831622#!/group.php?gid=90468780800&v=wall
Are you still around Alan, am just thinking of doing something about the reggae and dub music from that era etc. Thanks.
ah just saw this..yeah I’m around..:)
Really interesting blog!
There are too many stereotypes about this area….
Keep up the good work.
Thanks Jane. Any suggestions for walks are welcome.
Great Blog! Being a long term resident myself, it’s interesting to read about the area through someone else’s eyes.
Hi Rose,
I love love love your blog. I’ve only lived in Harlesden for a year. Despite being initially very snobby about moving to the area I now absolutely adore the place. Your fantastic writing about a fascinating part of NW10 is must read stuff for me. I hope you keep it up and thanks for sharing your experiences!
That was lovely to wake up to. Thanks Zoe….
Hi Rose,
Really like your blog, I recently spent a summer working in Harlseden at Mahogany, working on the Notting Hill Carnival costumes as part of my dissertation for my anthropology degree. On the day of carnival we walk from the Mahogany, to the Burger King carpark where everyone gets ready and then onwards to the Carnival and back round- all in all about 7 hours of walking, dancing, singing and performing the Harlseden spirit! I thought you might enjoy the photographs from those walks, and a great example of what young people can create when they are given a skill and a project within a community. http://www.flickr.com/photos/anthrokate/collections/
I look forward to reading more!
Katie
Thanks Katie. I intend to do something on Mahogany.
If you fancy taking a walk to Brent Museum, you can see my photographs and some costumes from Mahogany! http://www.brent.gov.uk/museumarchive.nsf/pages/lbb-71
Hi Rose Rouse,
loving your adventures in Harlesden. I lived there myself in the seventies: drank in the Crown, did shopping at Wrights and Hawkeye, watched Kung Fu movies at Coliseum and many a sunrise…..happy days! I am still only down the road and often pass by Blue Mountain when cooking up a feast.
Wishing you many more joyous moments!
Sally
Just come across your blog and it’s really fascinating read. We are currently in development of a feature film called ‘Stonebridge’. Thanks for your insights
Let me know how your film goes. I might come up and visit you. Thanks.
Love your blogg Rose. Lived in Harlesden all my life, 50 something, great area. Proof that multi culturalism works. Got one or two stories if you want them.
. Mattie