Ealing Sends its Deepest Condolences to the People of Japan
Local community school plan one minutes silence on Friday 18th March
Ealing's Council leader, Councillor Julian Bell,has expressed his sympathy to the people of Japan and their families living in the borough following the devastation the country has undegrone he said:
"The horrific scenes of mass destruction caused by the Japanese earthquake and tsunami could not have failed to have moved anyone watching their TV screens.
''Ealing has one of London's largest Japanese communities and I know that many people are very concerned and waiting with apprehension for further news.
''On behalf of the council I would like to express our deep sadness and condolences for everyone who has been affected and send our sympathy to the Japanese people."
Meanwhile the Japanese community in Ealing many of whom live in Acton are watching the events unfold with total disbelief.
Children from the Japanese school gathered outside Yo Yo Kitchen across from West Acton station to fundraise - dancing to music performed by Okinawa Sanshin Kai, a traditional music ensemble.
Yukimo Asato, who teaches the class of five and six year olds, said a little boy, Kotako Ito, 6, went to Japan with his family on March 4th to visit his grandparents and was due to come back at the beginning of April. He and his family lost everything, including their passports. "Yesterday we had the email from his mother and they are alright. But we don't know when he (Kotako) can come back to London,' Ms. Asato said.
'We want to send message to them to stay strong, cheer up,' Ms. Asato said.
The head of The Japanese School on Creffield Road, Kenro Tomomura said a one minute silence would be held on Friday 18th March, the last day of school before it breaks up for holidays.
"Everyone at our school is deeply saddened by the disaster in Japan." Tomomura said.
" Our sympathy is with the survivors and bereaved families in the affected regions. At the same time we still worry about the safety of our relatives and friends in Japan. As time passes, we are being informed about worsening situations. For now we are only praying for the best under the current circumstances."
14 March 2011