Children remember Damiola Taylor

A children's service of thanksgiving for murdered schoolboy Damiola Taylor was held at Southwark Anglican cathedral yesterday. The ten year-old, was killed in a racist attack on a south London housing last November. The Bishop of Woolwich, the Rt Rev Colin Buchanan, presided over the service which was attended by relatives and children from Oliver Goldsmith primary school, which Damiola attended. The service began with music from the school steel band. During the touching opening procession a photograph of Damiola, and some of his toys and books were brought to the altar. Prayers, poetry and children's writing were read by pupils. In a short eulogy headteacher Mark Parsons spoke of the difficult time all the children at the school had been through and praised the children, their parents, carers, teachers and governors for the way they supported each other. The service ended with the commendation of Damiola, and a blessing for the school by Bishop Colin.