Cllr Barry Rawlings called today’s attack “despicable and cowardly”

Hendon Town Hall and (inset) Barry Rawlings

The leader of Barnet Council has issued a statement condemning today’s attack on Heaton Park synagogue in Manchester.

Cllr Barry Rawlings was responding to news of the attack that took place this morning as worshippers gathered to mark Yom Kippur.

Two people have been killed and three others are in a serious condition. The attacker is believed to have been shot dead by police and the attack has been declared a terrorist incident.

In his statement, Cllr Rawlings said: “I speak for the council and the people of Barnet in condemning this despicable and cowardly attack on Jewish worshippers, on Yom Kippur, the holiest of holy days. We send our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of those killed and injured today.

“This was an attack on all members of Jewish communities and we stand firmly with them in sympathy and defiance. We cannot allow hate to triumph by stepping to one side. We will continue to work with our partners in local Jewish communities, the Community Security Trust, Shomrim and the Police to do all we can to help residents live safely and freely.”

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