The mayor of Oxford has expressed his sympathy to residents of twin city Perm in Russia following a mass shooting.

Councillor Mark Lygo, Lord Mayor of Oxford, said: “On behalf of the citizens of Oxford I want to extend my heartfelt sympathy to the residents of our twin city of Perm over the tragic shooting that has claimed the lives of so many innocent people at the Perm State University today.

"This is shocking news. Like Perm, Oxford is a proud university city and, as we see the return of students to our universities to begin or continue their studies, we feel deeply for those who have been killed or injured in this terrible incident, as well as for their friends, colleagues and families.”

Councillor Susan Brown, leader of Oxford City Council said: “An incident like this reminds us that the geographical distance that separates Perm from Oxford is no barrier to our shared sense of horror and grief.

“It was only last year that Oxford celebrated 25 years since we twinned with Perm with a series of shared virtual events. We now join with our friends in the city in mourning those who have been killed and injured in this terrible incident.”

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