Tower turns green in show of solidarity

Vigils held to mark a year since devastating fire which killed 72

Grenfell Tower and surrounding blocks will light up in green to mark a year since the moment the devastating fire took hold, claiming 72 lives.

Today marks 12 months since a small kitchen fire in the west London high-rise turned into the most deadly domestic blaze since the Second World War.

Twelve blocks, plus the tower, are expected to turn green in a show of solidarity across the west London skyline, while Downing Street is also to be illuminated.

The 13 buildings will be lit up from 12.54am today – the time off the first 999 call reporting the fire – until 5am.

For the following four evenings they will be illuminated from 8pm until midnight.

“We want the nation to keep Grenfell in their consciousness”

On the eve of the anniversary, members of the grieving north Kensington community gathered for a 24-hour vigil to reflect on those who died in the fire. During the private vigil at St Clement’s church, the names of the 72 victims will be read out at 1.30am.

From 11am, there will be a service of remembrance at St Helen’s church organised by campaign group Relative Justice Humanity for Grenfell.

In addition, a moment of silence will be observed at midday by survivors and bereaved gathered close to the tower’s base and nationally.

Yvette Williams, from campaign group Justice 4 Grenfell, said: “We want the nation to keep Grenfell in their consciousness.”