I have been tremendously affected by this awful tragedy and my heart goes out to all the victims’ famillies.

All through my life I have have known Norway as a wonderful ally to the UK.

When I was young, I was taken to Trafalgar Square in London to see the Christmas Tree donated by the Norwegians to thank our brave ancestors for their contributions to the Norwegians liberation from the terrible Nazi regime. The tree is a simple but very beautiful and pertinent symbol of mutual respect for each other’s nations.

When I was even younger, I had to have an operation and being away from my family for the first time, the person who helped me most to relieve my angst was my beloved ‘Norway Nurse’. I don’t remember her name, unfortunately, but she was the kindest, sweetest person ever and her memory stays with me to this day.

I have been fortunate enough to meet many Norwegians in my life and all have been wonderful, bright, attractive people.

I will be lighting a candle in our local Church tomorrow as a token of my respect, even though I am not the most attentive Christian in the world, but it is at times like this, one needs to have some sort of faith!

I have always wanted to visit Norway and this foul action from one maniac has not lessened my resolve… but increased it… so I can come and celebrate, enjoy and revel in all the good things that Norway offers to the world. Stand proud Norway.

God bless you

Simon