Mourners Gather at Clapham Common Vigil to Mark Five Years Since Sarah Everard's Murder
Approximately 100 mourners assembled at the Clapham Common bandstand in south London on Tuesday evening, March 3, 2026, to commemorate the fifth anniversary of Sarah Everard's tragic death. The vigil, organized by the local news page Best of Clapham, served as a poignant reminder of Ms. Everard and all women and girls who have lost their lives to violence.
A Heartbreaking Tribute to a Life Cut Short
Sarah Everard, a 33-year-old marketing executive, was abducted, raped, and murdered on March 3, 2021, by Wayne Couzens, a serving Metropolitan Police officer. Couzens exploited his position of authority, deceiving Ms. Everard into believing she could be arrested for violating COVID-19 lockdown rules as she walked home from a friend's house near Clapham Common.
The vigil featured emotional tributes, with one reading, 'Sarah, and all women who have been lost as a result of violence. Never forget.' Another message expressed, 'We never met you but we think about you every day.' Attendees laid flowers and listened to speeches, including one from Rebecca Goshawk, Director of Business Development at Solace Women's Aid.
Fundraising for a Vital Cause
In addition to honoring Ms. Everard's memory, the event aimed to raise funds for Solace Women's Aid, a London-based charity that provides support to women and children affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence. This initiative underscores the ongoing need for community action and resources to combat such crimes.
The gathering reflects a broader societal response to violence against women, highlighting both remembrance and advocacy. As the community continues to grapple with this loss, the vigil stands as a testament to the enduring impact of Ms. Everard's story and the collective call for change.
