Priti Patel says Forbury Gardens was a 'cowardly terrorist attack'

These are the words of Home Secretary Priti Patel who has written exclusively to the Reading Chronicle her reflections on the Forbury Gardens terror attacks.

She writes:

“Today I pay tribute to the brilliant lives of Joe Ritchie-Bennett, James Furlong and David Wails – three innocent people enjoying a summer evening with friends who had their lives so tragically cut short by a callous attacker. My thoughts and prayers on this very difficult day are with their families and loved ones, those that were injured and the witnesses of the cowardly terrorist attack.

“I also want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the heroic police officers who ran towards danger to help keep people safe. Last year a brave police officer tackled the perpetrator to the ground and arrested him within just five minutes of the first emergency call. They truly are the very best of us.

“While justice has been served, with the attacker spending the rest of his life behind bars, we owe it to Joe, James and David to continue to do everything we possibly can to prevent such attacks from happening again. As Home Secretary, I am committed to doing everything to stop terrorists in their tracks and tackle the root causes of radicalisation.

“We are still mourning the loss of Joe, James and David. I urge anyone who needs support to reach out to get the practical and emotional help available through victim support.

“As we remember their lives and the anniversary of their death, one year on, these days are the most challenging and I will always do everything in my power to support victims and loved ones of those who have been affected.”