Grenfell Tower anniversary: Firefighters break down in tears as they observe 72-second silence to commemorate victims

Tears: Dany Cotton consoles an emotional colleague
PA
Alexandra Richards14 June 2018

London Fire Commissioner Dany Cotton consoled firefighters as they broke down in tears during the 72 second silence to commemorate the victims of the Grenfell Tower fire.

Firefighters were seen wiping tears from their faces during the silence in powerful scenes as they marked the anniversary of the tragedy.

Ms Cotton consoled her colleagues during the outpouring of of emotion at the London Fire Brigade headquarters in Southwark.

Among the people gathered were those who fought to save residents trapped in Grenfell Tower when the building became engulfed in flames.

Firefighters stood and observed the 72-second silence at the London Fire Brigade HQ in Southwark
PA

People across the capital marked the loss of the 72 people killed in the fire on June 14 last year with a 72-second silence.

Silence fell over the streets surrounding Grenfell Tower as survivors and bereaved relatives led a national minute's silence one year on from the fire.

Those touched by the tragedy gathered near the foot of the block in west London to pay their respects at a ceremony which was closed to the public.

Firefighters broke down in tears during the 72-second silence
PA

Parallel commemorations took place nearby, including an 11am service of remembrance at St Helen's Church.

The hollowed skeleton of Grenfell Tower - still fenced off - is cloaked in white scaffolding and emblazoned with tributes 12 months on.

Banners bearing the giant green hearts can be seen for miles, alongside the slogan: "Grenfell: Forever in our hearts."

London fire commissioner Dany Cotton embraces her colleague
PA

Lampposts, railings and zebra crossings throughout near the scene have been covered with green fabric, while a giant floral heart greeted commuters at nearby Latimer Road station.

The wall of handwritten tributes - last year a desperate mesh of missing posters - is now home to carefully organised shrines to the victims, lined by plant beds.

London fire commissioner Dany Cotton marks the one year anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire with a one minute silence at London Fire Brigade
PA

At the start of the day, 58-year-old survivor Antonio Roncolato, a former resident of the 10th floor, said: "Today is a time to reflect and to raise further awareness and make sure that the world is still listening because we don't want this to happen ever again."

A silent march is to take place around the neighbourhood on Thursday evening, attended by Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn.

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