People from all backgrounds and faiths gathered in High Wycombe to pray, reflect and express solidarity with the people of Paris this weekend following the “abhorrent” terrorist attack on Friday.

During a poignant and emotional vigil on Sunday afternoon, community figures joined members of the public at All Saints Church as a mark of unity following the shocking massacre of 129 people in France less than 48 hours earlier.

The gathering was initiated the night before by the Revd Hugh Ellis in consultation with the chairman of the Council for Christian, Muslim Relations (CCMR), Chaudry Shafique, Toni Brodelle and Laurence Smy, as an initial response to the horrific bombings and shootings.

Mr Shafique said: “It was a quick response out of a feeling of a sense of solidarity to the people of Paris and the victims of this attack.

“As well as condemnation over the atrocity we also wanted to share our thoughts and love, solidarity in any way we could.

“Despite a short amount of time, we produced a very good turnout of people from both the Christian and Muslim community.

“We were all horrified by the abhorrent attack on Friday evening and want to continue to stand together as a show of unity against it.”

The group are planning to organise a larger vigil next Sunday at 3pm.

Speaking of the first event, Wycombe 38 Degrees chairman, John Bajina, said: “During this deeply moving expression of compassion and mutuality a different sort of message was heard, i.e. one of unity and resolve to work together in love and kindness.

“Through prayers, the lighting of candles and comments a strong desire to live out this message in common bonds of mutual affection was powerfully expressed.”