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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
National
Luke O'Reilly

Parents of Reading terror victim James Furlong pay tribute to 'best son you could wish for'

Mr Furlong's parents paid tribute to a 'wonderful son' (Picture: Family handout)

The family of James Furlong, who was killed in the terrorist attack in Reading, have issued a tribute to him through Thames Valley Police.

The 36-year-old, who lived in the Reading area, was killed following the incident in Forbury Gardens on Saturday evening.

He was a schoolteacher at The Holt School in Wokingham.

His parents Gary and Janet, released a statement paying tribute to a "wonderful man".

His family said he was the best son you could wish for (PA)

“James was a wonderful man. He was beautiful, intelligent, honest and fun", the statement said.

“He was the best son, brother, uncle and partner you could wish for. We are thankful for the memories he gave us all"We will never forget him and he will live in our hearts forever.”

The family has asked that members of the media respect their privacy at this difficult time and allow them to grieve in peace.

Mr Furlong was head of history and government and politics at The Holt School.

A letter from the school, which has been shared online, describes Mr Furlong as a “kind and gentle man” who had a “real sense of duty and cared for each and every one of our students”.

It continues: “He truly inspired everyone he taught through his passion for his subject and his dedication. He was determined that our students would develop a critical awareness of global issues and in doing so become active citizens and have a voice.”

Former pupils have described him as “simply the best”.

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