Litvinenko mourned (From Haringey Independent)

Litvinenko mourned

7:43pm Wednesday 13th December 2006 in News By Peter Stebbings

Former Russian spy Alexander Litvinenko, who lived in Muswell Hill, has been laid to rest in Highgate Cemetery amid a heavy police presence.

Last Thursday, after the sealed coffin containing the 43-year-old's body was lowered into a plot in the cemetery in Swains Lane, a short memorial service was held at nearby Lauderdale House, in Waterlow Park, Highgate Hill.

Between 40 and 50 close friends and family members, including Mr Litvinenko's wife, Marina, and their 12-year-old son, Anatoly, attended the 45-minute service, which was held in Lauderdale House's Long Gallery.

Mr Litvinenko's body now rests alongside those of philosopher and Communism founder Karl Marx, actor Sir Ralph Richardson and novelist George Eliot.

Mr Litvinenko, who lived with his family in Osier Crescent, died three weeks ago at University College London Hospital (UCLH) of poisoning after high levels of the radiation polonium-210 were found in his body.

Mrs Litvinenko last week tested positive for traces of radiation, and since then, it has emerged that two police officers have also been infected.

A Metropolitan Police spokeswoman refused to confirm or deny reports that one of the officers infected had been at the Litvinenko family home collecting evidence.

The other is said to be a police family liaison officer, possibly from Haringey police.

A police statement would only confirm that of 26 officers involved in the inquiry and tested, two samples showed relatively small traces' of polonium.

It added: "It should be stressed that the amounts of polonium are below defined safety limits. Both officers are well."

Meanwhile, staff at UCLH, and Barnet Hospital, where Mr Litvinenko was initially treated, have been given the all-clear.

Investigations into Mr Litvinenko's murder continue.