A crowd of around 15,000 gathered in Summerfield Park this afternoon to pay their respects to Haroon Jahan, Shazad Ali and Abdul Musavir, killed in last week’s riots.

The crowd, predominantly Muslim but with representatives from religious and ethnic groups across the city, heard tributes paid both to the men and the community to which they belonged.

Local councillor Ayoub Khan gave thanks on behalf of the mens’ families for the messages of goodwill they have received from around the world. He added, “They were protecting their community. They believed they were doing their civic and moral duty as British Muslims.”

Cllr Khan also told the crowd, which included Lord Mayor Anita Ward and deputy council leader Paul Tilsley, that their “self-control and humility” was appreciated by all.

Following prayers, the funeral cortege left for a private burial service in Handsworth.