The city of Manchester came together in a powerful display of unity and grief on Monday as hundreds gathered to pay their final respects to Adrian Daulby, the security volunteer killed while protecting a synagogue from a violent attack.
The emotional service at Southern Cemetery saw mourners from all faiths stand shoulder-to-shoulder, honouring the 51-year-old father described as a "true hero" who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect his community.
A Community United in Grief
Among the sea of mourners were members of various religious communities, police representatives, and local politicians, all united in their condemnation of the hatred that claimed Daulby's life. The diverse attendance sent a powerful message that Manchester stands together against antisemitism and violence.
Rabbi Jonathan Guttentag of the Whitefield Synagogue, where Daulby served as a security volunteer, delivered a moving eulogy praising his dedication and bravery. "Adrian stood on the front line to protect others," he told the gathered crowd. "His actions embodied the highest values of human decency."
The Attack That Shook a City
The tragedy unfolded on September 21st when Paul Brierley, 36, launched a violent assault outside the Manchester Reform Synagogue. Daulby, who was volunteering as part of the Community Security Trust's protective measures, intervened to protect worshippers and was fatally injured.
Brierley has since been charged with murder and two counts of attempted murder in connection with the attack, which police are treating as an antisemitic hate crime.
Legacy of Protection and Service
Daulby's commitment to his community extended far beyond his security duties. Described by friends as a "gentle giant," he was deeply involved in local charitable work and was known for his willingness to help anyone in need.
His funeral procession included a guard of honour formed by fellow security volunteers, their presence a testament to the tight-knit network of protection that has become increasingly necessary for British Jewish communities.
As Manchester continues to heal from this tragedy, Adrian Daulby's legacy serves as both a heartbreaking reminder of the cost of hatred and an inspiring example of ordinary courage in extraordinary circumstances.
