Grenfell community takes solace in dedicated garden

A MEMORIAL garden has been unveiled dedicated to healing, peace, and justice for the community devastated by the Grenfell Tower fire.

The garden at St Clement’s Church, Notting Dale, stands in the shadow of the charred remains of the west London tower block.

It was a chance for London mayor Sadiq Khan and Bishop of London the Rt Rev Dame Sarah Mullally, who performed the dedication, to join members of the Kensington community as they mark the first anniversary of the blaze that killed 72 people. The family of one of the victims, named only as Sheila, paid around £10,000 for the secluded garden which contains shrubs, two benches and a mosaic plaque shaped like an anchor with various religious symbols reflecting the neighbourhood’s diverse community.

Mr Khan said: “Our love and prayers are with those who were affected by the fire at Grenfell last year. This garden is to honour them. It is a garden of peace, healing and justice.

“The fire last year shone a light on the inequalities in our city and our country – one of the richest in the world. It also shone a light on the resilience and solidarity of this wonderful community. It is in their honour we must find out the truth of what happened.

“We must make sure those responsible are held to account – but also we must make sure that never again should a person lose their life, never again should a family grieve like these families are grieving and never again will a community be affected like this one has been.”

Survivors and those who responded to the fire and helped in its aftermath – including residents, community groups and emergency services – were among the congregation at a service in St Clement’s.

Housing minister James Brokenshire and Kensington MP Emma Dent Coad were among guests who heard how many people had shown great bravery and extraordinary community spirit.

Bishop of Kensington Graham Tomlinson warned that “the next few days will not be easy and that is why we need to fix ourselves on hope”. He added: “This building offers us comfort, shelter, sympathy and a home – which is especially important for those who are still waiting for theirs.”