Cardinal Vincent expressed his condolences on the death of Zdenek Makar, who was died in Poplar in the early hours of 22 September following an altercation at a chicken shop. The message, which was delivered by Fr Keith Stoakes at a memorial service held at Our Lady and St Joseph Church in Poplar, read:
'Today, at this sad moment, I offer my sincere condolences to all who mourn the tragic death of Mr Zdenek Makar. His death was the result of acts of violence which should have no place on our streets. Those actions are to be condemned.
'I also offer my most sincere prayers for the repose of his soul. I pray that God our loving Father will have mercy on him and welcome him into his heavenly home, there to await the glorious resurrection of all the dead. I pray particularly for Zdenek's family, especially for his elderly mother. May God strengthen her at this moment of grief.'
The memorial service was attended by Mr Makar's sister, Czech Ambassador Libor Sečka, as well as friends and many members of the local community.
