Faith leaders call for unity and peace following Southport incidents

Liverpool’s faith leaders have come together to call for peace and unity following the horrific attacks in Southport.

It follows speculation about more protests taking place following events elsewhere earlier this week.

Imaam Ahmed Ali from the Al-Rahma Mosque said: “We are calling into unity, tolerance and respect and get together to unite, to make this country, a safe place to reside in.”

Roman Catholic Bishop Tom Neylon said: “I’d like to just appeal really to the community for people to think, first of all, of the families that are involved, and those who are grieving now and to respect the privacy that they need and the help that they need at this time.”

Barry Levene, President of the Merseyside Jewish Representative Council said: “After what happened in Southport, on the terrible events afterwards we come together in solidarity and to say peace is the way forward.”

Church of England Bishop John Perumbalath said: “In the midst of this tragedy, as we experience pain, grief and anger, what we need is for the whole community to come together. We need to be really human. Be there for one another.”

Liverpool is joining other parts of the city region in lighting up civic buildings pink this weekend to remember those affected by the incidents in Southport.

Top photo, L-R: Bishop John Perumbalath; Barry Levene, President of the Merseyside Jewish Representative Council; Imaam Ahmed Ali from the Al-Rahma Mosque and Roman Catholic Bishop Tom Neylon.