Luton Borough Council

02/10/2025 - Statement on Manchester synagogue attack from Cllr Hazel Simmons MBE, Leader of Luton Council

Luton Council Leader, Cllr Hazel Simmons MBE, said: "We are deeply shocked and saddened to hear the news of the despicable attack at a synagogue in Greater Manchester today. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their loved ones and all those affected by this appalling act of violence.

It is heartbreaking that people were targeted and killed while at worship, and especially on Yom Kippur, a holy day of reflection and peace.

Our thanks go to the first responders; and we urge everyone not to speculate and allow the police to carry out their investigations. I would also like to thank Bedfordshire Police who have increased patrols in the community and to synagogues in the county to ensure that residents feel safe and supported.

We stand shoulder to shoulder with our Jewish community, and with people of all faiths, in rejecting hatred and extremism in all forms. Luton is a town built on compassion and respect and by standing together we will continue to show that solidarity is stronger than hate. An attack on any of our diverse communities is an attack on us all and we stand with them on this sombre day."