Many of you will already be aware of the horrific arson attack in Lessingham Avenue eleven days ago, which has claimed the life of 15 year old Maleha Masud, and left her brothers Zain and Junaid and sister Nabiha in a critical condition.

The news this morning that a 14 year old has been charged with murder is gratefully received - of course there has yet to be a trial or a verdict. There may well be others involved.  It is shocking that anyone could commit such a horrific crime.

Everybody I've spoken since the fire has expressed their shock that such a senseless and devastating attack could happen here in Tooting.  We have a vibrant and strong community, which I have always been proud of, and attacks like this affect everyone who lives here.

I have been in touch with the family and also the Police, Fire Service and local faith and community groups. There is a tremendous amount of support and solidarity with Mrs Masud who lost her husband to cancer two years ago and her daughter last week. As her other three children are in a critical state our thoughts and prayers are with her, her family and friends.

On Wednesday morning, Burntwood School, where Maleha was a popular student, held a special service and assembly to honour her memory  The theme was peace in our community and the wider world, with reading from students, teachers and local police officers.  Sadly I was unable to attend, but the reading which had been chosen for me struck a chord, and I wanted to finish by repeating it here:


Let us be united;
Let us speak in harmony;
Let our minds apprehend alike.
Common be our prayer;
Common be the end of our assembly;
Common be our resolution;
Common be our deliberations.
Alike be our feelings;
Unified be our hearts;
Common be our intentions;
Perfect be our unity.