FARNHAM MP Jeremy Hunt has expressed his “awe” for Britain’s security forces after witnessing the horrific attack in Westminster first hand last week.

Four people were killed and more than 20 injured after Khalid Masood drove a car into pedestrians and fatally stabbed a police officer before being shot dead by police outside the Houses of Parliament on Wednesday last week.

Public figures and authorities across Surrey and Hampshire have since paid tribute to the victims of the attack, including the MP for South West Surrey Mr Hunt who was in Westminster at the time.

Mr Hunt said: “I witnessed much of what happened from the window of my parliamentary office where I was locked down for over an hour.

“I also knew [stab victim] Pc Keith Palmer as he greeted me regularly when I cycled through the main gates going into parliament.

“I feel nothing but awe for the brave men and women who defend our democracy and without whom I could not do my job.

“I am also proud of the magnificent response by paramedics and NHS staff who as ever were there for us when we needed them.”

Following the horrific events, doctors and nurses were seen running from nearby St Thomas’ Hospital to help those injured while Dr Jeeves Wijesuriya, chairman of the junior doctors’ committee at the British Medical Association, was also among the first on the scene after breaking off his interview with a regional BBC team.

Flags were subsequently flown at half-mast at Farnham Castle (pictured) and many other public buildings in Surrey and Hampshire to honour those caught up in the attack, and a minute silence was also observed at Surrey Police headquarters on Thursday morning.

Speaking after the silence, the Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey David Munro said: “I am deeply shocked and saddened by yesterday’s terrible attack in Westminster and my thoughts remain with all those who have been affected.

“These events are a stark reminder of how much we depend on police officers to protect us all from harm on a daily basis.

“The swift response of the emergency services to yesterday’s attack no doubt prevented an even worse tragedy and I would like to pay particular tribute to the brave actions of Pc Keith Palmer who sadly lost his life protecting others.

“As Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey, tackling the threat of terrorism is one of my key priorities and I would urge everyone in the county to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to police as a matter of urgency.

“We must continue to work together to defeat terrorism and those who seek to create fear and disharmony in our communities.”

Tilford-based members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association (AMYA) also condemned the “barbaric attacks” and attended a vigil in Trafalgar Square last Friday.

The association said in a statement: “Our sympathies and prayers are with the people of London and all those affected. Such attacks and violence against innocent people can never be justified under any circumstances.”