The third anniversary of the 2017 terror attack on London Bridge and Borough was today marked by a virtual service hosted by Southwark Cathedral. 

Eight people were killed three years ago when a van was driven into pedestrians on the bridge before the driver and two passengers embarked on a knife rampage. 

The anniversary service was held online in light of ongoing restrictions on large gatherings due to coronavirus. 

It was led by the Dean of Southwark, the Very Rev Andrew Nunn, who said: "The third anniversary of the terrorist attack on London Bridge and the Borough Market falls at a time when we could easily be distracted by everything else that is happening.

"But it is right to stop and to remember the events of 3 June 2017. The memories and the pain are still around and very real for many people. I hope that together we can continue the process of healing as we stop to remember." 

Contributions came from city officials, including the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, who said: "The innocent victims from London and around the world will forever remain in our hearts.

"I know I can speak on behalf of all Londoners when I say we send our love and prayers to all the families who were affected, and we express our gratitude once again for the heroic actions of ordinary Londoners and our emergency services that night. 

"The cowardly terrorists who committed these dreadful acts do so to try and divide us, to fuel fear and to change how we treat one another. 

"The best way to defeat this kind of hatred is to stay true to who we are and to focus on our common values. We should be proud of the way our city has responded time and time again by remaining united, just as we should take hope from how Londoners have been supporting each other during the Covid-19 crisis." 

Cllr Peter John, Leader of Southwark Council said: "We may be in lockdown but it was so important to us all to find a way to come together on 3 June, to make sure everyone affected by the events of that dreadful night knows they are always in our thoughts.

"We will never forget the loss and pain caused by those evil acts, but we also remember the bravery shown by so many that night, and the way our great city came together in the face of evil, to stand and remain united."

Family members of the victims also took part in the service. 

Wreaths were laid at the olive tree planted in the garden of Southwark Cathedral on the first anniversary of the attack.