Letter to Lord Mayor of Liverpool from Lord Mayor of Chester

Dear My Lord Mayor, Councillor Barbara Murray

As a neighbouring City, Chester's heart goes out to Liverpool today following yesterday's tragic incident. The incident was a sad moment for your great city on what should have been a joyous ocassion for everyone. I have been deeply saddened by the unfolding news and scenes, especially as children have been injured.

Chester sends Liverpool, our friend and neighbour, our sincere condolences, and best wishes as it comes to terms with what happened. Many people from Chester, including my brother, were in Liverpool enjoying the parade and celebrating with follow football supporters.

I must extend my sincere gratitude to your emergency services and partner agencies for their swift and ongoing response. Special thanks must also go to the police, fire officers and first responders who ran towards the incident to help and who then rallied around afterwards offering help and support to people who needed it.

The incident must have been terrifying for all the onlookers and by-standers and I would also like to extend my thanks to the members of the public who came to the aid of the injured too.

I hope all those people who have been injured and who are being treated in hospital make a speedy and full recovery.

Flowers and a candle have been placed in Chester Town Hall as a mark of support and respect to all those injured or affected.

With best wishes

Councillor Sherin Akhtar

Lord Mayor of Chester