King sends message as Birmingham marks 50 years since pub bombings
The Duchess of Edinburgh delivered the message at a special service at New Street
Last updated 10 hours ago
The King has sent a personal message to the families of victims of the Birmingham pub bombings, as a special service was held to mark 50 years since the atrocity.
On the 21st November 1974, the Mulberry Bush pub and the Tavern in the Town were bombed in an attack by the Provisional IRA, leaving 21 people dead and 220 injured.
Around 100 people gathered beneath the tree sculpture at New Street station, which bears the names of the victims, for a service this afternoon.
Relatives, survivors, dignitaries and supporters were among the crowd. A minute silence was observed, with a number of musical performances and readings made.
The Duchess of Edinburgh was also in attendance, and delivered a message on behalf of the King.
It said: "As you come together to mark 50 years since the terrible events of 21st November 1974, my wife and I would like to take this opportunity to say that you and all those affected by this dreadful attack remain very much in our thoughts.
"Today we remember the 21 people who lost their lives so cruelly and all who were injured, many of them grievously.
"We also pay heartfelt tribute to those who rushed to their aid."
Labour MP for Birmingham Yardley Jess Phillips and former West Midlands Mayor Andy Street read out the names of all of the 21 victims of the pub bombings. A number of wreaths and flower tributes were also placed on the tree memorial at New Street.
Maurice Malone, CEO of the Birmingham Irish Association, organised the service.
He said: “Today marked the passing of 50 years since that terrible night in our city. We are always humbled by the courage and respect shown by those who lost their loved ones at the hands of the bombers in such horrific circumstances.
"The service also demonstrated the best of humanity and provides hope that the healing process will be carried on through subsequent generations.”
Further tributes are planned to mark the anniversary this weekend, with Aston Villa planning a minute's applause in memory of the victims at half-time of their match against Crystal Palace at Villa Park.
The Library of Birmingham is also being illuminated on Thursday night to mark the 50-year anniversary.
You can hear more stories in the No Justice: The Birmingham Pub Bombings at 50 podcast on the Rayo app.