I am writing on behalf of the entire community in Sutton to express our sincere condolences following the tragic events caused by extremists in Paris.

It is sad to reflect that the start of the 40th anniversary of our two towns being twinned should be in such terrible circumstances.

However, this is a moment to invoke the purpose of why our two communities were brought together – to foster friendship and understanding between different cultures and promote peace.

The terrorist attacks on the magazine office and supermarket in Paris were despicable and senseless.

Those who carried out those cold and brutal attacks sought to divide and cause hatred. We stand in solidarity with you at this time, united in common cause. We cherish our shared values of freedom of speech, tolerance and community.

Together, we will not let a warped minority who reject those values divide us. It is moments like this that prove the strength and true meaning of friendship.

The enduring ties between our two towns will continue long after the pain caused by these atrocities has passed.

We offer our sympathies to the families of those killed and praise the brave men and women who risked their lives to protect others.

Our community, from every faith and creed, joins the millions of people around the world to declare: Nous sommes Charlie

COUNCILLOR ARTHUR HOOKWAY
Mayor of Sutton

 

 



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