South Norwood residents marched in support of victims of the Grenfell tragedy yesterday evening, condemning locals who burned an effigy of the tower.

Over 300 people silently marched through the area, streets away from the house where a cardboard model of the block went up in flames just over a week ago. 

Supporters held placards and banners displaying messages of 'solidarity' with the victims of last year's disaster in which 72 people died.

Event organiser Jane Nicholl, 67, from the South Norwood Tourist Board (SNTB), said: "The video was so vile.

"Just imagine how survivors, who have already suffered so much, felt when they saw an effigy being burnt.

"Given how nasty it was and the fact it came from people in our own community, we felt we had to do something."

Your Local Guardian:

SNTB were inspired by Grenfell campaigners who, on the 14th of every month, silently walk past the site of the tower in Kensington, reflecting on the tragedy that took place.

Ms Nicholl said: "The atmosphere was quite solemn. We wanted to show we really meant it and were standing with the victim's rather than the racists.

"But at the same time everyone was joyous that the community had come together on this. There was an uplifting feeling of solidarity.

"It was a bit nerve racking not knowing how many people turn up, but it turned out to be a big success.

"South Norwood will not tolerate racism."

Omar Baggili, 39, said: "I wanted to participate to show people that South Norwood is not dominated by idiots like those that made the horrific effigy of Grenfell Tower."

Sandra Ruiz, whose niece died in the fire, spoke at the end of the rally.

Ms Ruiz is part of Grenfell United, a group for survivors and bereaved families which works with campaigners for improvements in housing safety.

She said: "What happened last week was devastating to us but you have shown tonight but you have shown us tonight what a wonderful larger community we all belong to.

"London and the UK have shown us such warmth and support and we can't thank you enough."

Your Local Guardian:

Two local men were arrested for their part in the effigy incident last week, which took place in their South Norwood home on Norhyrst Avenue.

Father and son Clifford Smith, 49, and Bobbi Connell, 19, handed themselves into south London Police stations.

Croydon Guardian revealed that both men are part of the South Norwood Conservative Club, a social club for conservative supporters, from which they have now been suspended.