Nottingham City Council buildings will fall silent today (Thursday) to remember the three victims of the Nottingham attacks on 13 June last year.
Staff will pause for a two-minute silence at 1pm in memory of school caretaker Ian Coates, and University of Nottingham students Barnaby Webber and Grace O’Malley-Kumar, who were killed early that morning by Valdo Calocane.
Councillor Neghat Khan, Leader of Nottingham City Council, said: “It’s hard to comprehend that a year has already passed since the terrible and tragic events in our city on 13 June. Our thoughts, as ever, are with the families of Ian, Barnaby and Grace at what we know will be an incredibly difficult time for them.
“Three innocent lives were lost that day and they will never be forgotten by the people of Nottingham.
“Council buildings will be observing a two minute’s silence on Thursday, while I will join with other local civic leaders for quiet reflection on the anniversary.”
Thousands of Nottingham people stood shoulder-to-shoulder at a vigil in Old Market Square two days after the attacks last year in an emotional tribute to the victims.
Civic dignitaries and local figures addressed a large crowd as the city remembered Ian, Barnaby and Grace, as well as those injured or affected, while reiterating the message that Nottingham is a place of love, tolerance and hope.
Councillor Khan added: “I cannot comprehend the pain and loss that will continue to be felt by Ian, Barnaby and Grace’s friends and families, and especially at the anniversary of last year’s terrible attacks.
“We are all still healing, but will try to find some comfort this week by being with others and making time to reflect. Nottingham is a city of love and tolerance – we look after one another here.
“My most sincere condolences are with everyone who knew and loved Ian, Barnaby and Grace.”