A crowd of some 100 people gathered in Ramsgate town yesterday (September 4) to remember a dad whose life was taken in a stabbing attack on August 23.
Candles were lit and tributes read in memory of Ashley Jones, a 52 year old Ramsgate resident, dad, son and friend.
The event was organised by town mayor Raushan Ara and also attended by Captain Carl Whitewood and Heather Whitewood of the Ramsgate Salvation Army who conducted the service, and Rabbi Cliff Cohen and his wife Hélène Cohen who shared a reading.
Ramsgate Town Council chairman Steve Albon also attended, helping those gathered to light candles.
Talking at the vigil, Cllr Ara said: “Ashley more more than the circumstances in which he died.
“He was a person, a father, friend, a member of our community and a man whose life mattered.”
Friends and family also shared words to remember Ashley, with one saying “Grief is the price we pay for having known someone. We grieve because somebody mattered.”
Carl Whitewood spoke of the ‘real horror’ felt by the community over the violent incident which also saw another man injured, but added that there had been ‘big support’ to gather and say goodbye to him.
Cllr Ara added: “The vigil for Ashley Jones was a deeply moving service.
“It proved what we already know — that as a community, we have a strong bond and we are here for each other. Please always remember to look out for one another.
“My heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended — to family, friends and neighbours who came to show their support.”
Ashley died after being stabbed in the shocking incident in Harbour Street. A second man, aged 48, was also stabbed in Harbour Parade. He has since been released from hospital.
As part of the police investigation, a 45 year old man was identified as a third victim, although he did not sustain any injuries.
Kieran O’Rourke, aged 21, of Seafield Mews, Ramsgate has been charged with murder, causing grievous bodily harm with intent, attempted murder and possession of a bladed article in a public place.
He has been remanded in custody with trial scheduled at Canterbury Crown Court on April 5 next year.
