FOLLOWING last weekend’s (Sunday 12 June) tragedy which took place in Orlando, United States, Thurrock Council has placed a book of condolences in the reception area of the Civic Offices building in Grays.
Everyone is invited to write their thoughts in the book which will be available until Thursday 30 June.
The book will be sent to the Mayor of Orlando, Buddy Dyer, the following day (Friday 1 July).
Mayor of Thurrock, Cllr Cathy Kent said: “Last weekend’s news was a shock.
“Tragedies take place globally every day and we should always remember that. However, this particular heart breaking event hit home.
“My heart and support goes out to the victims and their families, the emergency response teams who attended the scene as well as those in the hospital giving aid to the 53 wounded men and women.”
Chair of Thurrock Council’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) forum, Stephen Taylor said: “The mass shooting in Orlando is deeply upsetting with the tragic loss of 49 lives. Our thoughts are with the victims’ friends and families, as well as the people of Orlando.
“It was touching to see thousands of people gather at vigils in Soho in London and across the country, standing in solidarity with the LGBT community and the people of Orlando.”
He added: “Thurrock Council is proud to be an LGBT friendly employer and takes its responsibility to tackle hate and fight discrimination seriously.”
