Council praises efforts of the community as Southwark recovers from violence

As the clean up continues, Cllr Peter John has continued to visit parts of the borough most affected by the violence.  

Cllr John has also written a personal message on what's been dubbed "Peckham's Wall of Love" on a Poundland store on Rye Lane which invites the public to say why they love Peckham. His note, which read 'because Peckham has a great future', was among more than 600 messages posted by the end of the first day (Tuesday).  

Other messages from the local community included: "We are bigger than them", "Because there are people who respect each other", "We stand up for each other", "We love our friends and parents" and "Don't destroy people."  

Community theatre company Peckham Shed organised the wall. Lucy Bradley, the current creative Leader of Peckham Shed, said: 

'There was so much fear, anger and distress in the area in the aftermath of the rioting that we wanted to do something to remind people that Peckham is a great area, one that lots of people really care about, and where there is a vibrant and brilliant community who want to try and solve the problems here.' 

Meanwhile, the council continues to work with partners and community leaders in order to get the borough working normally once more, and to keep residents, businesses and visitors as safe as possible.  

Cllr Peter John, Leader of Southwark Council, said:  

"I've visited affected areas and listened to residents' and businesses' concerns over the violent disturbances earlier this week.  We are working with the police and other community groups to keep our borough as safe as possible, and I would like to praise the extraordinary efforts of the police, volunteers and local people who have demonstrated the strength in our community. I believe the spirit of the people of this borough will triumph over the disgraceful actions displayed by a mindless minority."