A year on, Grenfell Tower fire haunts UK

A year after the fire that killed 72 people, London's Grenfell Tower has been illuminated to mark the first anniversary of the disaster.

Grenfell Tower in west London

London's Grenfell Tower is lit green to mark a year since the devastating fire that claimed 72 lives (AAP)

Survivors, bereaved families and people around Britain are marking the first anniversary of the fire that destroyed Grenfell Tower, a residential high rise in west London, killing 72 people.

The London Eye, Downing Street and other buildings near to the site of the most deadly domestic blaze since World War II turned green in the early hours of Thursday.

June 14 marks 12 months since a small kitchen fire in the London high-rise took hold, with the buildings lit with green lights from 12.54am - the time of the first 999 call.

A vigil took place at a church near the block with the names of the 72 victims read out at 1.30am.

The display is one of a series of commemorations and vigils taking place this week as the public inquiry takes a step back.

From 11am, there will be a service of remembrance at St Helen's church organised by campaign group Relative Justice Humanity for Grenfell.

Clarrie Mendy, who lost two family members in the fire and organised the anniversary event, said the names of the 72 victims would be read out, while 73 doves will be released outside the church.

"It's a service of healing, community, inclusivity and solidarity, to know we are not alone.

"We'll be releasing 73 white doves. Why 73 instead of 72? One for the unknown. If there were more than 72, we will put one for the unknown."

In addition, a moment of silence will be observed at midday (local time) by survivors and bereaved gathered close to the tower's base and nationally.

A community mosaic is to be unveiled, while wreaths will be laid and candles lit.

The tower is now completely covered by white sheeting, with banners featuring the green Grenfell heart and the words "Grenfell forever in our hearts" emblazoned across the four highest floors.

In the afternoon, the community is expected to congregate at the nearby "Wall of Truth" ahead of the silent march which will set off around 7pm.


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2 min read
Published 14 June 2018 4:52pm
Updated 15 June 2018 8:26am
Source: AAP


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