Luton town centre buzzed with excitement on Tuesday when London bomb survivor Gill Hicks and her WALKTALK team were welcomed by the mayor, councillor Lakhbir Singh.

They were on the latest leg of their peace initiative, following the Leeds to London route taken by the 7/7 bombers three years ago.

They aim to build trust and reconciliation along the way by engaging in conversation with Britain's multi-cultural communities.

And they hope to deter the devastating violence that claimed 52 lives and left Gill a double amputee in the aftermath of the tragedy.

Councillor Singh, who greeted the WALKTALK delegation outside the town hall, is highly supportive of the group's ideals and ambitions.

He said: "In Luton we recognise how essential it is not just to talk but to constantly seek new ways of communicating with each other and strengthening our communities.

"The enormous physical effort and perseverance involved in this walk is a symbol of the massive determination needed for peacemaking and effective dialogue."

He added the large numbers who'd gathered to welcome the WALKTALK team reflected Luton's support and he promised: "We will ensure the talking never ends."

WALKTALK spokesman Zulfi Hussain said they'd been overwhelmed by the warmth of Luton's welcome. He said: "We were given a really good reception. Luton welcomed us with open arms. Each place has been unique in its own way but Luton has been the most culturally diverse.

"We were given an inter faith reception at the Central Mosque. It was very powerful and there is a great opportunity to harness the different strengths from different groups. We've been very moved by the sympathetic and energetic response we've received from local residents.

"So far, the journey has been everything we hoped and expected it would be - we've created a chain from Leeds to Luton and look forward to carrying it all the way to London."

They are planning a triumphant entry into Trafalgar Square on Sunday to mark the end of their epic journey. T

hey will be met by several dignitaries including the chief constable of Westminster Police and representatives from the Mayor of London's office, the Met police and the London Ambulance service.

For more infprmation about WALKTALK, click here.