CROWDS gathered in Oxford city centre to stand united in the face of terrorism.

Community members including Islamic scholar Dr Sheikh Ramzy, MPs and members of Oxford Stand Up to Racism gathered in Cornmarket to mark solidarity in the aftermath of the London terror attack.

They began to line the street at 5.30pm on Friday evening, with protest signs in their hands and candles at their feet.

Dr Ramzy said: "We are here to condemn this act of terror on our democracy. We are here to respect and pay for the victims who lost their life."

It comes after a terrorist injured 50 people and killed four more in Westminster on Wednesday. 

Ian Mckendrick, spokesman for Stand Up to Racism, added: "We were absolutely appalled by what happened and send our sober messages of sympathy and solidarity.

"What we find worrying is far right groups immediately trying to take the event in a racist direction."

MPs Nicola Blackwood and Andrew Smith, who were in Parliament at the time of the attack, were also present at the service. 

Ms Blackwood said: "We stand here and send our very strongest wishes to the victims of Wednesday's terrible tragedy.

"What I will remember is the police officers who rushed to our aid and the pictures of the NHS workers running out of the hospital into a danger zone to save lives.

"Ever since, there has been example after example of Britain at its best. I am incredibly proud of our response as a nation and locally."

Mr Smith added: "We stand here in memory of the victims, and against terrorism. Obviously people are horrified and concerned by what's happened.

"We are determined as a society to defend our democratic freedoms. At times like this, Britain pulls together."