Synagogue attack 'day of solidarity' one week on

Seven days have passed since the attack which resulted in the deaths of two Jewish worshippers

A 'day of solidarity' one week on from the Manchester synagogue attack is a chance for people to stand together for "values of respect, tolerance and freedom of worship", the faith minister has said.

A national coalition of faith and community organisations is expected to see schools and religious organisations take part in events in memory of the dead and injured.

Jihad Al-Shamie, 35, attacked Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall last Thursday, resulting in the deaths of Jewish worshippers Adrian Daulby, 53, and Melvin Cravitz, 66.

In Manchester earlier a vigil was held outside the synagogue.

Al-Shamie was shot dead by police during the attack which took place on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar.

On Wednesday Counter Terrorism Police confirmed the attacker had pledged allegiance with the so-called Islamic State group in a 999 call he made from the scene moments before police arrived.

Seven days since the attack, communities are being encouraged to hold vigils, light candles, or have moments of silence across the UK.

A vigil was held outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue earlier

Faith and communities minister Miatta Fahnbulleh said the day of reflection was "an important opportunity for communities across the UK to stand with the Jewish community following last week's appalling attack in Manchester".

She said: "Moments like this remind us of our shared responsibility to uphold the values of respect, tolerance and freedom of worship that define our country.

"At a time when antisemitism and other forms of hate are causing real fear and anxiety, it matters that we come together to show that compassion, understanding and unity remain the strongest threads in our national fabric."

The day, co-ordinated by the Together Coalition, is supported by various faith leaders, including Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell.

He said we are living in times of "unacceptable and increasing levels of both antisemitism and anti-Muslim hostility" and added that he was praying "all may live in harmony and respect".

Schools and community groups, as part of the Oasis Charitable Trust, are planning to hold a minute's silence on Thursday to send a message to the Jewish community "that you are not alone".

The National Federation of Women's Institutes has said its members will mark the moment in town and village halls as well as places of worship "with quiet acts of solidarity and reflection, showing that compassion, respect and community spirit will always be stronger than hate".

Six people had been arrested on suspicion of terror offences after Al-Shamie's car and knife attack, but have all since been released without charge after being "questioned at length" by Counter Terrorism Police officers.