Dozens of residents from across Waltham Forest gathered at a candlelight vigil for the victims of recent terrorist attacks in Pakistan and Sydney.

Last week six members of the Taliban stormed a school in Peshawar before killing 148 children and staff.

On the same day in Australia, gunman Man Haron Monis died along with two hostages when police raided the cafe he had taken over in the centre of Sydney.

Walthamstow Town Square was filled with lights as members of the United for Peace No to Terror campaign gathered.

People of all ages joined the large group, spelling out the word ‘unity’ in candles before observing a two minute silence.

Stella Creasy MP was one of many speakers at the event.

She said: “I see a common concern – not just to condemn those people who committed this barbaric act – but to send light and love to those people who are suffering right now.

“We know 132 children, some as young as eight years old, were killed for the most simple of desires – to get an education.

The event was organised by two friends from has Walthamstow.

Organiser Sajidah Patel, a student at SOAS university in Russell Square, said she was "inspired" by the support she is recieving for the event.

"It shows that people from every walk of life can live side by side in unity. We can't let the acts of fanatics break down relationships made over the years between all faiths and members of society."