Doves released in memory of Grenfell Tower fire and Finsbury Park mosque attack victims

LEADERS from seven different faiths came together to release doves in memory of the victims of two recent tragedies.

The Grenfell Tower fire and Finsbury Park mosque attack were marked by the gesture of peace, speeches and a minute’s silence at the Heart of Steel in Minster Gardens on Friday.

Adrian Dexter, pastor at Liberty Church on Station Road, coordinated the event.

He said: “In light of recent events in Finsbury Park and North Kensington, I believe it is important to have a public response to show our solidarity with the Muslim community and also the friends and families of the residents of Grenfell Tower.

“Our Muslim friends stood by us in our grief, when the white British community came under attack in Manchester and in London. 

“And we are very grateful for their support in such terrible times.

“I do feel it is now our turn to stand together with our Muslim friends in their grief, as their community has come under this senseless and evil attack.”

Doves were chosen due to their significance as bringers of peace in many cultures.

Adrian said: “This is symbolic of our prayer for our Muslim friends and our diverse communities — that peace would be released over our town, borough, county and nation.”