Pope Benedict XVI has called on the perpetrators of London’s bomb attacks last Thursday to "stop in the name of God".

The Pope prayed at the Angelus in front of a crowd of around 40,000 tourists and pilgrims in St Peter’s Square yesterday, before saying, "We all feel profound sorrow for the atrocious terrorist attacks in London last Thursday."

The Pope requested prayers "for the people who were killed, for those who were wounded and for their dear ones" before appealing for prayers for those responsible, "that the Lord will touch their hearts."

The Pope went on to rebuke "those who foment sentiments of hatred" and the "repugnant terrorist attacks" they carry out, saying, "God loves life, which he has created, not death."

In a final heartfelt plea to the perpetrators, the Holy Father said: "Stop in the name of God!"

Benedict XVI sent a message to Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O’Connor, archbishop of Westminster, condemning "these barbaric acts against humanity", on receipt of the news of the attacks.

The death toll for Thursday's bomb attacks now stands at 52, according to the latest official figures.