ON MONDAY, June 20, Reading came together to mark the second anniversary of the terror attack in Forbury Gardens.
It claimed the lives of David Wails, Joe Ritchie-Bennett, and James Furlong, and left three more people injured.
Before a public memorial service, the families and friends of the victims held a private ceremony in St Laurence’s Church, close to Forbury Gardens.
The Reverend Chris Jones led the ceremony, inviting members of the family to share their memories of David, James, and Joe, each followed by music they enjoyed for a period of reflection.
Julia Titus performed an original song, followed by the reading of Psalm 23, and the lighting of candles in memory.
During the service, Reading Borough Council leader, Jason Brock, said: “I think of them often, when similar events happen around the world, and I know that I am not alone in that.
“We stand with you, and we remain standing with you.”
After the service, they joined Reading Borough Council representatives and members of the public for a memorial ceremony in the gardens.
Attendees, including a number of officers from Thames Valley Police and Thames Valley Fire and Rescue Service, as well as first responders, were welcomed by the Mayor of Reading, Cllr Rachel Eden.
Cllr Eden led a minute’s silence before a member of staff from the Holt school, where James Furlong taught as head of history and government and politics, performed a reading of In Our Hearts.
The Reverend Sonya Wratten of Reading Minster of St Mary the Virgin then gave a reading, and led attendees in prayer.
Finally, Cllr Eden led a flower laying ceremony, where yellow flowers were laid, representing friendship, while Nicole Grace performed Somewhere Over The Rainbow.
Roses were laid in memory of Joe, sunflowers in memory of James, and gerberas in memory of David.
To close the ceremony, the Maiwand Lion, which came to further symbolise the unity and strength of the people of Reading, was lit.
In an address to those who had gathered to pay their respects, Cllr Eden, said: “Thank you for standing together, thank you for being Reading.
“To all those affected, to family and friends, please know, as Cllr Brock said, not only do we stand with you, we remain standing with you.
“And can I add you are held in our hearts, and the hearts of the people of Reading, every day.”
Friends and family gathered at the Blagrave Arms, where three plaques have been installed honouring the men.
As they were during the first anniversary last year, a drink for each of them was poured and displayed above the plaques.
Tributes from people around Reading were posted to social media during the day, including from Reading Borough Council, LGBTQ+ support charity Support U, and The Holt school.
Thames Valley Police also posted that their thoughts were with those affected by the event, and to highlight the bravery of the first responders and everyone who helped in the aftermath of the incident.
They were joined by the Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, which said that it stands alongside its emergency service partners in remembering the victims.
In a statement prior to the service, Reading Pride’s chief engagement officer Tom Price said: “Today, more than ever, we think of Joe, James, and David and their families, and all those affected by the attacks
“They’re always in our hearts, and always in the hearts of the community.
“It is important that we always remind ourselves of the importance of the community not just within the LGBTQ+, but within all of Reading.
“Our thoughts and love got out to the families of Joe, James, and David.”
Reading Together is raising funds to create a permanent memorial to the victims of the attacks, which you can donate to by visiting: www.crowdfunder.co.uk.
Those affected by the attacks can seek support by visiting: together.reading.gov.uk
