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‘Communities defeat terrorism. We must come together as one’


Communities defeat terrorism. We must come together as one’

An increased police presence will be seen across Reading over the next few days, the town’s local policing area commander has said. Supt Nicholas John said residents should not be alarmed if cordons remain in place, though many have already come down. He said the town’s response and community spirit had been “very moving” since the attack. Supt John said: “It is now more important than ever that everyone plays their part in tackling terrorism. “Communities defeat terrorism. In times of adversity we must come together as one community as the co-operation between each other is our most powerful defence. “I am proud to be part of the diverse Reading community and we will together stand up against those who aim to divide us.” Cordons remain in place near Forbury Gardens, including Town Hall Square, Blagrave Street, Forbury Road and The Forbury.


A cordon outside Reading Town Hall on Monday afternoon.


  1. James Furlong, a teacher, is the first victim identified

  2. Second victim named by family in US as Joe Ritchie-Bennett

  3. A minute's silence was held in the town at 10:00 BST

  4. Khairi Saadallah, a 25-year-old Libyan national, is in custody on suspicion of murder

  5. It is believed to be an isolated incident and police are not looking for anyone else

  6. The attacks happened in Forbury Gardens in the town centre

  7. Three people died following the attack and three more were treated for injuries

  8. Police urge people not to share footage of the attack on social media

Pupils pay tribute to teacher

More pupils at The Holt School in Wokingham paid tribute to James Furlong, who was its head of history, government and politics. Ella Banbury, 17, said: "He was just a really kind teacher. You would always see him smile - there wouldn't be a time where you wouldn't see him smiling. "He wasn't just there to teach the subject, he wanted to make sure everyone is OK." Kate La Cumbra, 17, said: "I didn't have any subjects with him but even if you didn't know him, around school he would always be happy to help you," Another student, Poppy Hind, 17, added: "His smile was the main thing. He would walk around school with a massive smile on his face every single day." Pupils lit candles at the nearby St Paul's Parish Church.



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