A candlelight vigil has been held in Derry tonight for former South African President Nelson Mandela who died yesterday.
Remembering Nelson Mandela at tonight’s candlelight vigil in Derry.
Around 200 people attended the Sinn Fein-organised vigil held at the H-Block memorial at Rossville Street.
Speakers MEP Martina Anderson and MLA Raymond McCartney paid tribute to the late former President.
Mr McCartney read quotes from Mr Mandela’s autobiography “Long Walk to Freedom” while Ms Anderson told those present his “long walk to freedom is now over.”
The South African national flag was raised by former prisoner and political activist Paul Kavanagh.
Meanwhile, a book of condolence for the late Mr Mandela has been opened in Derry’s Guildhall.
Opening the book, the city’s Mayor Cllr Reilly said it was important the people of the city were afforded the opportunity to express their condolences and to acknowledge the impact Mr. Mandela played in the lives of everyone.
He added: “Mr. Mandela was an inspirational man and one of the world’s greatest leaders and a role model for all of us involved in the peace process.”
The Mayor concluded: “A true friend of the people of Derry, Mr Mandela was committed to peace and fully supported our efforts at bringing communities together.”
The book of condolence will be open daily from 1.00pm to until 5.30pm.
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