A year after the Grenfell Tower fire, a series of vigils are being held in memory of the 72 people who died and a dozen buildings including the tower have been illuminated green
Grenfell tower, as well as several other buildings across London, were illuminated at 00:54 BST, the time a fire was reported in a flat last June.
A vigil took place at a church near the block, where the victims’ names were read out at 01:30.
A minute’s silence will also be observed nationally at midday.
Cressida Dick, the Metropolitan Police commissioner, said that despite 12 months having passed, the tragedy “remains very real, raw and painful for many people, every day”.
She added: “Met officers and staff continue to work very hard to progress our ongoing investigation, to assist the public inquiry and provide support to families.”
From 11 am, there will be a service of remembrance at St Helen’s church organised by campaign group Relative Justice Humanity for Grenfell.
Clarrie Mendy, who lost two family members in the fire and organised the anniversary event, said the names of the 72 victims would be read out, while 73 doves will be released outside the church.
She said: “It’s a service of healing, community, inclusivity and solidarity, to know we are not alone.
“We’ll be releasing 73 white doves. Why 73 instead of 72? One for the unknown. If there were more than 72, we will put one for the unknown.”
Since the fire, the tower has been covered in white sheeting with a heart featured on all four sides at the top of the block.
The anniversary comes as an inquiry into the fire continues its research stage.
Kensington and Chelsea Council said 52 households remained in temporary accommodation and 83 are in permanent homes.
Another 68 are in “emergency” accommodation – 42 in hotels, 22 in serviced apartments, and four staying with family or friends.
Elizabeth Campbell, leader of Kensington and Chelsea Council, said the authority’s thoughts are with bereaved families, victims and the survivors of the Grenfell Tower disaster.
She said: “It will be a difficult day for the community, with poignant moments to remember those that lost their lives a year ago.
“I respect the wishes of the families involved, and the wishes of the community who have organised a series of commemorative events across the area. So I am only attending events I have been invited to.”
