In pictures: Sheffield #ReclaimTheseStreets vigil

Last night, the #ReclaimSheffieldStreets vigil was meant to take place in memory of Sarah Everard at Devonshire Green. It was cancelled by the police due to Covid-19 restrictions.

The event was replaced by a virtual Zoom vigil which took place at 6 pm online. However, this didn’t stop the public from going down to Devonshire Green and paying their respects to Ms Everard. Flowers and signs were placed and candles were lit to show their condolences for the murder and kidnap of the 33-year-old.

A sign left at the Sheffield vigil

Sarah went missing in Clapham on her walk home from a friend’s house. A Metropolitan policeman was arrested for kidnap and murder after a body discovered in Kent was identified as Sarah’s.

Flowers, cards, and candles laid in Sheffield

Across the UK, vigils were cancelled by the police but many still went ahead. The original event in Clapham, set up in memory of Sarah, was one of them. Hundreds of people gathered at the bandstand in the Clapham park to pay their respects to Ms Everard.

A #ReclaimTheseStreets sign on a tree in Devonshire Green

Police had warned the public of £10k fines if they attended as the event breached lockdown, but this was ignored. Police came in force to the Clapham vigil trying to disperse the crowds and arrested many women.

Women at the Clapham vigil. Credit: Elena Vardon

Footage of the aggressive nature of the police at the Clapham vigil caused uproar with the distressing videos and images captured.

Flowers left at the Clapham vigil. Credit: Elena Vardon

Sheffield’s assistant chief constable Tim Forber said: “We are acutely aware of the groundswell of concern in relation to some of the matters this protest aims to address. Sarah Everard’s kidnap and murder has shocked us all, and we understand the need to come together at this difficult time.

“However, we must remind you that Covid-19 is still very much present in our communities. We urge you to make your voices heard in a safe and COVID compliant way, be that virtually or in another way.”

If you have been impacted by these stories or need support for sexual harassment, please contact the services below:

• Sheffield Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre (SRASAC) – 01142412766
• SSiD (UoS students) 
• Report + Support (Hallam students)
• Supportline – 01708765200, [email protected]
• Lifecentre – 08088020808 (freephone) 07717989022 (textline)

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