“It has been a very difficult 24 hours for Croydon and my thoughts and sympathies remain with everyone affected by yesterday’s tram incident.
“Emergency services, assisted by council support teams, remain at the scene and I would like to thank them for their tireless efforts both yesterday and today. I would also like to thank the staff at Croydon University Hospital and St George’s Hospital for the help and ongoing treatment and support they are providing to those injured yesterday.
“I’m grateful to St Mildred’s Church and the Red Cross for the support they gave at the reception centres set up for the family and friends of those affected by this horrific event.
“I visited the scene yesterday afternoon and while there heard of numerous acts of kindness from residents and nearby businesses. These included allowing emergency service personnel to use their bathrooms and providing cups of tea, coffee, sandwiches and cakes to those working at the site, for which I thank you.
“I am immensely proud but not surprised to hear how those along the affected tram route and the wider Croydon community have come together in the face of tragedy to support family, friends, neighbours and even those they don’t know.
“At 11am tomorrow we will stop to remember the sacrifices made by military and service personnel in conflict, but we will also take this opportunity to hold an additional minute’s silence to remember those who sadly lost their lives in yesterday’s accident.
“I’d encourage anyone wishing to pay respect to those affected by yesterday’s tragedy to join us at the cenotaph on Katharine Street for the Service of Remembrance and wreath laying tomorrow at 11am.”
Councillor Tony Newman, leader of the council
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