Borough with largest Moroccan population in UK opens books of condolence after earthquake

A council has opened books of condolence for residents to fill out following the devastating earthquake in Morocco that has killed at least 2,000 people so far.

Kensington and Chelsea has the largest Moroccan community in the UK. Councillors met residents who are concerned about their family and friends over the weekend to discuss what could be done to help.

On Monday the council opened books of condolence at Kensington Town Hall in Hornton Street, North Kensington Library in Ladbroke Grove and Al Manaar mosque in Acklam Road for residents to show their support for suffering families.

Friday’s earthquake in Morocco’s High Atlas mountains is the biggest to hit the north African country in 120 years, with a magnitude of -6.8.

Marrakech and five provinces near the epicentre have been hit the worst, Morocco’s interior ministry said. 

Councillor Sarah Addenbrooke, lead member for communities said: “The local community in the borough have responded with amazing speed and tremendous drive to do what they can to help those affected both in Marrakesh and locally and we will support them in this.

“The scenes coming out of Morocco are devastating and we know the disaster will impact communities here in the borough. 

“We’re monitoring the situation closely, and stand ready to work with local communities, charities, and any forthcoming appeals led by the disaster emergency committee.”

Pictured top: Councillor Kim Taylor-Smith and Kensington and Chelsea mayor councillor Preety Hudd sign condolence books (Picture: Kensington and Chelsea council)