SWNS Asad Shah (left) was killed by Tanveer Ahmed

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UKIP announced this evening that its memorial event for the much-loved business owner will now not go ahead because of safety fears. Mr Shah, an Ahmadiyya Muslim, was killed outside his store hours after wishing a Happy Easter to Christian customers, on March 24. In response to the public outcry over the killing UKIP organised a collection of signatures for a book of condolence for the family and friends of Mr Shah, to take place in Bradford City Centre.

SWNS Asad Shah's death has prompted an outpouring of grief

UKIP councillor Brian Morris and Bradford MEPs Jane Collins and Mike Hookem were due to gather messages of sympathy and support following the horrific stabbing. They were to be joined by members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim community, but tonight announced that after receiving 'threats' the event has been cancelled. In a statement, one organiser said: "I am hugely disappointed to have to announce that the event which was planned to reach across communities and show how appalled the city of Bradford is that one of its own residents committee this crime cannot go ahead for safety reason.

SWNS Asad Shah was a community figure who promoted piece

We cannot risk ignoring these threats which could lead to violence and would cause further distress for the community Event organiser

"Unfortunately, when the book was taken to one mosque in order for people to send their messages of peace and love to the family of the victim after Friday prayers, thinly veiled threats were made which has forced us to take this decision. "We did not cancel this event lightly because it was our dearest hope that Mr Shah's loved ones could have something to show that we as a city are devastated by this tragic event and to know that the people of Yorkshire are united in believing that we must rid our communities of these kind of hate crimes. "However we cannot risk ignoring these threats which could lead to violence and would cause further distress for the community. "We hope that another way can be found to send our sympathies and support to Mr Shah's friends and family."

SWNS An event has had to be cancelled over 'thinly veiled' threats were made