Why Sunderland's landmarks are being lit up red, white and green over the weekend

Penshaw Monument, the Northern Spire bridge, Fulwell Mill, the White lighthouse at Seaburn, Keel Square and High Street West, will be lit in the colours of the Lebanese flag for three nights from Friday, 7 August until Sunday, 9 August.

The explosion in the Lebanese capital killed at least 137 people, injured an estimated 5,000 others and left as many as 300,000 people homeless.

It is believed to have been caused by 2,750 tonnes of ammonium nitrate stored unsafely in a warehouse at the port in Beirut.

Deputy Council Leader of Sunderland City Council, Councillor Michael Mordey, said: "Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Lebanon as they struggle to come to terms with the impact of this devastating explosion in the heart of their capital city.

"It has been truly shocking to see the horrific impact of this blast and hear about its devastating toll, with so many people killed, injured and left homeless.

"This is a desperately sad time for Lebanese people who have already been through so much and it's only right that we show our sympathy for them by lighting our landmarks in a symbolic show of support."

The landmarks and features will be lit red, white and green from dusk to dawn except for Seaburn lighthouse where the lights switch off at 10.30pm and Northern Spire bridge where the lights switch off at midnight.

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