Nottingham holds candlelit vigil to remember victims of Paris attacks

Around 200 people attended a candle-lit vigil in Old Market Square last night to show solidarity with the people of Paris, Beirut and Baghdad.

The vigil started at 5:30pm and provided a platform for Councillors, MPs, religious representatives and the public to pay their respects to the recent victims.
Many people held banners and lit candles in protest of the barbaric terrorist attacks.

Trent students pay their respects

Councillor Linda Woodings, of Basford Ward, addressed the crowd to say that democracy requires us to agree to differ in a civilised way.
She said: “It is the spirit of kindness and humanity that sees us gathered here tonight in unity and solidarity.”

The crowd also heard poetry from a Nottingham school girl and a student from Trent.
As the speeches drew to a close, candles were shared around and people were invited to place them down and say prayers in remembrance.

Third year Broadcast Journalist Jack Stoddart, said: “I think that it was horrifying to find out about these attacks, and I think it’s positive that people in Nottingham are coming together to show their support.”

Third year English Literature and Creative Writing student, Sophie Stephens, said: “I am pleased to see that tonight’s vigil pays respects to all of the countries affected by ISIS. It has been an emotional evening.”

Event organiser and student campaigner, Nadia Edith Whittome, thanked everyone for attending and speaking at the vigil.

“Peace will win”

The city hall building was also lit up in the blue, white and red of the French flag  to show the city’s support.