Statement from the Mayor of Lewisham following the Manchester synagogue attack

I am horrified and deeply saddened to hear about the sickening attack that has taken place in Manchester today. It took place during Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, at a place where people should be safe to practice their faith.

My thoughts are with everyone affected; we stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the Jewish community at Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue, in Lewisham and across the country.

In Lewisham we are proud of our diversity; it is a place where people of all faiths and none get along and respect one another. There is no place for the sort of hatred and violence we have seen today, and I know that local people, particularly religious communities, may be feeling anxious or afraid following this devastating news.

I want to let you know that we are working with our partners to ensure our Jewish community feels supported during this difficult time.

If you have any concerns or want to report a hate crime, call 999 in an emergency. If it is not an emergency you can make a report on our website.