A demonstration aimed at highlight the plight of the Palestinians attracted over 200 people.

Crowds gathered on the steps of Blackburn Town Hall earlier today (Sunday May 16). The protest was advertised as a peaceful vigil on social media. Several activists spoke out against the bombing of Gaza and the names and ages of the children killed in the onslaught were read out.

Earlier in the day a multi-faith vigil was also held in Burnley. The event at Burnley Peace Gardens was attended by people of all faiths and backgrounds where prayers were said for those killed in the violence.

In the past 24 hours Israeli air strikes in the heart of Gaza City flattened three buildings and killed at least 33 people, making it the deadliest single attack since heavy fighting broke out between Israel and the territory’s militant Hamas rulers nearly a week ago.

The Gaza health ministry said 12 women and eight children were among those killed in Sunday’s attack, with another 50 people injured.

Israel has carried out hundreds of air strikes across the impoverished and blockaded territory, which is home to more than two million Palestinians, and brought down a number of high-rise buildings – including one that housed The Associated Press office in Gaza.