Press release March 5 2011

The following statement is being released by the British High Commission on behalf of the Tobin family whose son died in the Christchurch earthquake. The family have requested that this is their only statement to the press.

It is with a heavy heart that we must thank this city of Christchurch and the international community at large for their help and generosity through these darker times. As we mourn the loss of our son and brother Greg Tobin we remember his vibrance and social spirit which we have come to realise embodies this entire island and is the reason why Greg felt comfortable enough to call Christchurch his home.

The family would like to thank, for their selfless generosity, the International Urban Search and Rescue Teams including members of the New South Wales Fire and Rescue, the British High Commission Team in Christchurch who left their families to help ours. The New Zealand Police Force, in particular our Family Liaison Officer whose patience we tested. The owners and staff of Joe’s Garage who adopted Greg as their own. Our friends and family, old and new, who have kept the torch burning and to the family whose wing we have been taken under, we are eternally grateful.

The fortitude and resilience of the people of Christchurch leave us in no doubt that they will rebuild this city.

To those who are my army, the wall of arms around me.

Ends
Notes to editors.

The family have requested that the statement be produced in full and not edited.

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