Jamie in our hearts and our prayers

EXPRESSING our grief: the Bishop of Middleton signs the book of condolence at East Crompton St James Church

A SPECIAL church memorial service was held for Jamie Heaton who died in the Shaw blast.

East Crompton St James was open yesterday for well-wishers to pay tribute to the toddler by lighting candles and saying payers.

Even those who didn’t know the little boy paid their respects and signed a special book of condolence.

The Rt Rev Mark Davies - the Bishop of Middleton - attended and wrote: “With the assurance of my prayers for you at this time of such tragic loss. May the love of God be your comfort and strength.’

He later said: “We want to support Jamie’s family, for them to know lots of people are praying for them and thinking of them.

“Lighting a candle for Jamie is a powerful symbol in a very dark time for the community.

“There is a very strong community feel here. Although it is quite urban, there is a village feel and this has affected the whole community.”

The parish vicar, Rev Lynne Connolly, said she had been shocked by the situation.

“The prayers of all the churches and centres of worship in Shaw are with the bereaved family and all those who have been affected by this tragedy,” she added.


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