Heartfelt tribute to Grenfell Tower victims two months on
Hundreds of people marched silently through the streets around Grenfell Tower to mark two months since the deadly fire which left at least 80 dead. People of all ages and backgrounds took part in the procession, in the shadow of the charred block of flats, at the start of the Notting Hill Carnival yesterday.
Dozens of white doves were released at the start of the Notting Hill Carnival during a poignant opening to honour people killed in the Grenfell Tower fire.
A multi-faith prayer was also read as a “small act of remembrance” to mark the tragedy.
The white birds were released by survivors, local residents and politicians including London mayor Sadiq Khan.
Crowds fell silent during an emotional performance of the charity version of Bridge Over Troubled Water by Brenda Emmanuel.
Handmade green hearts and streamers adorned the judging area while spectators were decked out in green following a campaign encouraging people to go “green for Grenfell”, which organisers said they hoped would symbolise “reverence and respect amidst the revelry”.
Mr Khan greeted survivors sitting and chatted to them about their housing situations ten weeks on from the tragedy. He said although the carnival took place in a “context of sadness and sorrow”, it was a celebration of London’s diversity.
More than 80 people are believed to have died when fire engulfed the block of flats on 14 June. The carnival route passes near the tower.
Posters have been put up at spots where the tower can be seen, asking the public not to take photographs “at the site of our great loss” – something which has distressed locals.
A spokesman for Grenfell United, a residents and survivors group, said: “We hope people will follow these requests from us and our friends and family in the wider community. They will enable people to pay their respects; be conscious of our vulnerability; and show solidarity.”