The Smith’s community came together at Warriors Field as part of a candlelight vigil last night to remember those who have died in recent years.

More than 150 people gathered on the field for the event, organised by the St Philip AME Church in partnership with the Harrington Workman’s Club, including representatives of several of the parish’s churches, who led attendees in prayer urging peace and unity.

Anthony Richardson, the local MP, welcomed the guests and urged them to be mindful of those who have lost loved ones, particularly as the holiday season approaches.

“I want us to use more than words,” he said. “It’s easy to say that I’m thinking of you or I’m praying for you, but then I stop.

“We just came through Covid-19 when everyone was locked in and we are about to go into Christmas. When we have these times of celebrating for some it is the worst possible time because they start to remember those that were.

“This year many of us are going to have a Christmas and a birthday and other things for the first time without a loved one.”

Mr Richardson said that while it was always difficult to accept the loss of a loved one, it was always harder when the person was young, as many who have died in recent years have been.

“I want to offer more than words and for us all to do more than words and truly look out for those of us who have lost a loved one, not just yesterday, today and tomorrow, but as we go forward,” he said.

“Let’s please, please be mindful.”