These riots have been going on since Saturday night, and most of the damage has been done in outskirts of the main city, but STILL - a bit too close for comfort when we remember how many historical and invaluable sites there are in London! (Not to mention the safety and well-being of the beloved Royal Family). As I write this, I'm praying that these riots stop before they reach the heart of London, and before more deaths occur. (So far, there are only one or two fatalities, I believe...but many are injured).
This morning I read an article on a British news website that made me so sad. Apparently, last night, the House of Reeves"Furniture Store blew up in flames and was completely destroyed. Reeves had stood on the same corner in Croydon, South London for over a century, and the business was family-run for 140 years. Now, all that's left of the building is a burnt-up shell, littered with charred rafters and bricks. The family is devastated and has even said their life is "destroyed."
I cannot imagine being in London amidst all the chaos right now. As much as I can't wait to travel there some day, I am quite happy to be away from the madness and destruction.
My heart goes out to all who have been affected by the chaos and violence, and I pray that it ends soon. I don't want to read about any more violence tomorrow - Let London sleep in peace.
Here are a few links with more information and articles about the riots, including the one I shared above:
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2023975/London-riots-2011-Croydons-House-Reeves-razed-ground.html?ito=feeds-newsxml
http://news.yahoo.com/uk-police-arrest-over-200-london-riots-continue-170520562.html
http://news.yahoo.com/london-rioters-battle-police-shooting-protest-054921704.html
http://www.boston.com/bigpicture/2011/08/london_riots.html