Pakistani and Kashmiri Community Association visit Rochdale Police to express condolences after Westminster attack

Superintendent John Ruffle was presented with a floral bouquet by members of the Pakistani and Kashmiri Community Association

Representatives from the Pakistani and Kashmiri Community Association (PKCA) have visited Rochdale Police Station to express their condolences in the wake of the Westminster attack.

Superintendent John Ruffle was presented with a floral bouquet, a personalised card and boxes of chocolates from the PKCA.

Superintendent Ruffle said: “Last week, in the face of such adversity, we discovered and expressed a renewed sense of appreciation for the men and women who stand on the thin blue line and the communities that support us and stand with us.

“I was very proud to accept this lovely gesture on behalf of our team and GMP.

"The team’s bravery, day in and day out never ceases to amaze me, the term 'hero’ barely even begins to describe the sacrifices they make.

"Despite those terrible events I am humbled and overwhelmed by the support of our communities, including the PKCA. We stand side by side, working together to protect all that we hold dear.”

Chairman of the PKCA, Mudassir Yasin, said: “We are incredibly proud of our police force and for everything they do, which often goes without any thanks.

"During our visit at the Rochdale Police Station, we were honoured to have met Superintendent Ruffle and his team: they were all incredibly gracious.”

Shahid Mohammed, founder of BME Health and Wellbeing and vice-chairman of the PKCA, added: “We wanted to express our appreciation for all the work that Territorial Commander Neil Evans, Superintendent John Ruffle and their team carry out to protect and serve the community.

“The senseless attack at Westminster shook us all and we unreservedly condemn it; our thoughts and prayers are with all the victims and with Keith Palmer’s family who lost his life carrying his duty. Our police officers are the true heroes, and our little gesture of thanks was the least we could do.”

Councillor Aasim Rashid said: “During our talks, I assured Commander Evans of our full co-operation and support.

“Under Neil Evans’ and John Ruffle’s leadership, I know that the police and Rochdale Council will continue to maintain a strong partnership with each other to provide safer neighbourhoods within Rochdale Borough.”