Croydon Council has opened a book of condolences in memory of those killed in the Norway massacre.

The book recognises the events of Friday that saw dozens of young people shot at a youth camp as well as an explosion at a government building in Oslo.

Croydon has strong links with Norway after the Lanfranc air disaster that took place 50 years ago this August.

The 1961 air crash near Stavanger claimed the lives of 34 pupils and two teachers from Lanfranc Secondary Modern School.

Ever since that dark day bonds between Norway and Croydon have been forged and a replica of the Norwegian cross, a gift from the people of Stavanger, stands in the memorial gardens of Croydon crematorium.

The book of condolence will act as a way for the people of Croydon to extend their sympathy to the families, loved ones and friends of those who lost their lives.

Councillor Mike Fisher, the leader of Croydon Council, said: “Fifty years ago Croydon was in mourning because young people from the borough were killed in a tragic accident in Norway.

“Now the whole of Norway is mourning the senseless loss of so many lives, most of them young people with their lives ahead of them.

“I know people in Croydon will want to express their sympathy in some way and this book of condolence is a chance for them to do that.”