THE brutal murder of my brother Tariq Javed has caused my family and I great pain and suffering, which will undoubtedly remain with us forever in our minds and souls.

Our great burden will perhaps be slightly lightened when the perpetrators are brought to justice.

Despite these recent tragic events, as a family we have managed to cope, but only with the sincere and professional support of Bury Racial Equality Council, Bury MBC, mainstream political leaders, taxi drivers and voluntary sector organisations.

I would like to thank these agencies, as well as the whole community in Bury for their support and condolences. Also special thanks to all the taxi drivers for their help and support on the day of the funeral.

The death of Tariq has struck a chord with everyone, particularly as he was a good, decent, hard-working man who had his life cut short by evil criminals. He leaves behind a wife and four children, as well as other family members who now have to rebuild their lives and pick up the pieces.

All I ask of each and every one of you is to respect all people regardless of their colour or creed. And I pray that no other family is made to go through what we have had to as a Muslim family living in Bury.

I thank everyone for sharing our grief and sorrow.

ASIF JAVED,

brother and

family spokesman.