First responders and members of the public have shown compassion and bravery during the Southport attack and the ensuing race riots, writes the MP for Chesham and Amersham Sarah Green.

We have seen terrible scenes in the last two weeks. The attack in Southport was the stuff of nightmares. The whole country recoiled in horror at the idea of someone actively choosing to target young girls attending a summer class of music, dancing and laughter.

We all mourn for the three girls who were killed. Our thoughts are with their families as they try to come to terms with their devastating loss.

The days following the attack, have been filled with more violence and unrest. Sadly, much of this has been focussed on our Muslim and immigrant communities – even though they are not connected with the Southport attack.

No matter your viewpoint on immigration, or law and order, there is no justification for this appalling violence and disorder.

But rather than focus on those perpetrating these offences, I want to highlight the bravery and compassion that has also been on display within these awful events.

In the original knife attack, the adults leading the class tried to protect the children, as did someone else working in the building, who rushed in to try to disarm the attacker – and passers-by raised the alarm to send help. When the Mosque was attacked in Southport, the next morning members of the local area all came to help rebuild walls, sweep up the debris and try to restore the damage that was done.

There are stories like this from every instance of violence, every scene of disorder. And there is also the bravery of our first responders – who risk serious harm as they work to save lives.

I hope that as the media rightly looks at the causes, instigators and impact of these terrible events, we also look for and acknowledge the exceptional bravery, compassion and community spirit shown in reply.