Memorial to victims of 7/7 bombings unveiled (From Richmond and Twickenham Times)

Memorial to victims of 7/7 bombings unveiled

11:54am Tuesday 7th July 2009

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The families of those killed in the 7/7 bombings will see a memorial dedicated to their loved ones unveiled today - on the fourth anniversary of the terror attacks.

Among the 52 killed was young Afghan national and West Thames College student Atique Sharifi, of Hounslow, who fled his home to escape terror attacks, and trainee midwife Emily Jenkins, of Richmond, who was on her way to work in central London.

The Mayor of London Boris Johnson was due to join the Prince of Wales, Duchess of Cornwall and Prime Minister Gordon Brown to meet the families of the victims of the bombings and representatives of the emergency services.

They were due to attend the dedication ceremony in Hyde Park.

Mr Johnson said: "We will never forget the tragic events that took place in this great city on July 7, 2005. This memorial echoes the steely determination shown by Londoners in the days following the bombings."

Mr Sharifi had been studying English at West Thames College since September 2002, where he drew praise from staff.

He worked in a pizza takeaway in his spare time to send money back to his younger sister still in Afghanistan, his tutor Harminder Ubhie said. Their mother and father had died during the Kabul War, she said.

Ms Ubhie described Mr Sharifi as a highly-motivated student who always made others laugh.

"He was a delight to have in the group," she said.

In a statement Ms Jenkin's family said: "Emily was the youngest of four children of Nick and Sarah Jenkins. She had a love of life and a great ability to bring out the best in people. Her love of children had set her on the path to becoming a midwife.

"Emily will be remembered for her enthusiasm and her deep passion for her family and friends.

"She touched all who met her and will be sorely missed."

The London Bombing Memorial will consist of 52 steel pillars one for each of the victims.

• Did you know Mr Sharifi or Miss Jenkins? Post a tribute below or call the newsdesk on 020 8744 4271.

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