PEOPLE across Kent today joined in the national two-minute silence observed 12 months on from the London terror attacks.

At noon the UK marked the first anniversary of the bombings that claimed 52 lives and injured hundreds. In Kent, offices fell silent and traffic in many towns and villages came to a standstill.

One of those killed was Philip Russell, from East Peckham, near Maidstone. His parents, Veronica and Grahame Russell, joined the families of other victims for a private ceremony at the Museum of London and a service at St Ethelburga’s Church.

A book of tributes, written by the families of victims, will be kept on display at both sites.

At other churches across London, a series of commemorative services were being held be held to pay tribute to those who died.

On July 7 last year, Philip Russell boarded the number 30 bus at London’s Euston Station after his train failed to stop at his usual station, Moorgate, on the Northern Line.

The finance worker probably had no reason to suspect that another passenger on board the bus, an 18-year-old from the outskirts of Leeds, named Hasim Hussain, would detonate an explosive device contained in his rucksack within half an hour.

The bomb would kill 14 passengers, including Philip and suicide bomber Hussain. It was four days before Philip’s 29th birthday.

Speaking in the run up to the first anniversary of her son’s death, Veronica Russell, 62, Russett Road, East Peckham, reflected on the act of terrorism that killed her son.

She said: “I don’t think about the bombers. You could be bitter but I don’t see the point It’s a huge gap in your life."

She stressed: “The first few weeks afterwards were raw and the pain was searing – it’s still painful

"Friday will be taken up with events and being with family and friends – it’s something to focus on.”

Philip’s 63-year-old father said the couple’s grief had not really lessened over the year. “It never goes away,” he said. “Don’t believe anyone that says time is a great healer.

But he added: “You remember the good times – and really there weren’t that many bad times with Philip.”

The couple agreed sharing memories had helped them. "We talk about him a lot,” said Mrs Russell.