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EXPRESS Manchester terror attack - 22 people have died in a suicide bombing at Manchester Arena

"I've just been hearing of police officers who were off duty turning up, wanting to ensure that they could contribute, that they could help. "So many people have helped. That's the great spirit of Manchester, the spirit of Britain, and one thing I'm clear is that the terrorists will not prevail." Mrs May said the police and security services were working "to identify whether there was a wider group of people involved in this particular incident". As more victims are identified, Poland’s Foreign Minister has reportedly told local radio that two Poles who went missing after the attack are dead. 15-year-old Olivia Campbell, Kelly Brewster, mothers Lisa Lees and Alison Howes are all confirmed to have died, along with Georgina Callender, 18, Saffie Rose Rousse, 8, and John Atkinson, 26, whose deaths were confirmed yesterday. Yesterday the area surrounding Manchester Arena and Victoria train station were shut down as forensics officers investigated.

Manchester bombing: Harrowing scenes of terror attack at Ariana Grande concert Tue, May 23, 2017 22 people, including children have been killed and 59 injured in an explosion during a concert at Manchester Arena Play slideshow PA 1 of 8 Police are treating it as a possible terror incident

Elsewhere in the city police evacuated the Andale Centre following reports of a suspicious bag being found and glass being smashed. Dramatic video footage shows the moment armed police arrested and escorted a man out of the centre in the heart of the city. The Royal Exchange Arcade was also evacuated, while Selfridges, House of Fraser and Debenhams closed their doors. Security has also been stepped up at the Trafford Centre with armed police on patrol.

NC The Queen paid her respects and held a moment's silence before an event at Buckingham Palace

PA Theresa May signing a book of condolences in Manchester this afternoon

Armed police have also been seen at the Etihad stadium which is being used as a support centre for people caught up in last night’s atrocity. Extra police will also be deployed to Wembley and Twickenham stadiums during the upcoming cup finals at at the Wimbledon tennis tournament this summer. The Met Police said: "Specialist officers from our event planning teams and protective security experts are now reviewing in detail all the plans for upcoming events in the capital. "This includes smaller events which may not have had a police presence seeing a greater focus (and) an increase of armed and unarmed officers on highly visible reassurance patrols around key locations.”

Police forces across the country have announced plans to review security measures and have urged the public to report any suspicious activity. Greater Manchester Police have confirmed that 22 people have been killed and more than 100 injured in the Manchester terror attack. Around 120 people were injured in the blast, according to the ambulance service. They said 59 people were hospitalised, several with serious injuries, while 60 walking wounded were treated at the scene. Many of the injured are in a life-threatening condition following the explosion, which happened just after 10.30pm last night, while 12 of the injured are aged 16 or under.

AFP GETTY Theresa May meets with Chief Constable Ian Hopkins

It is not known how many children were among walking wounded who went to hospitals. Jon Rouse, Chief Officer of the Greater Manchester Health and Social Care Partnership said: “There are a number of individuals who have very, very serious injuries and are requiring intensive care and people who are going to be in hospital for a long time in terms of that treatment.” North West Ambulance Service Medical Director David Ratcliffe said: “12 children went to Royal Manchester Children's Hospital... The other hospital received mostly adults and then there were walking wounded which will have gone to different centres, some of which would have been children.”

EPA Armed police stand guard outside Manchester Piccadilly station

The attack left thousands of people fleeing in terror and left carnage inside the venue, with one witness claiming "bodies were everywhere". The Prime Minister said the attack stood out for its “appalling sickening cowardice” as she warned police and security services think the attack was carried out by one man and will investigate if he was part of a wider group. She added: “The threat level remains at severe that means a terrorist attack remains highly likely.

PA Forensic officers are seen outside a property in Elsmore Road, Manchester

“The Independent Joint Terror Analysis Centre will continue to assess this throughout today and in the days ahead.” She said: “It is now beyond doubt that the people of Manchester and Britain have fallen victim to a callous terrorist attack, an attack that targeted some of the youngest people in society with cold calculation.” She added the authorities are not ready to announce the identity of the attacker, who died in the blast, killing 22 people. The PM hailed those who rushed to help, who had shown "the spirit of Britain ... a spirit that through years of conflict and terrorism has never been broken and will never be broken”. A defiant Mrs May vowed: "The terrorists will never win and our values, our country and our way of life will always prevail." The bombing, which is being treated as a terror attack, is the worst to hit Britain since the July 7 2005 suicide bomb attacks in central London in which 52 people were killed.

Countries across the world are paying tribute to the incident, with a British flag flying above Cork Town Hall in Ireland and buildings in Hong Kong displaying messages of support. The Manchester blast came four years to the day since Lee Rigby was murdered by Islamic extremists in Woolwich. The area around the stadium remains in lockdown as authorities continue with their investigations. A series of raids are understood to be taking place across Manchester with police arresting a 23-year-old man in south Manchester in connection with the bombing. Greater Manchester Police said: “With regards to the ongoing investigation into last night’s horrific attack at the Manchester arena, we can confirm we have arrested a 23-year-old man in South Manchester.” Armed police have been spotted in the student suburb of Fallowfield to carry out a controlled explosion after the terror attack. Police were pictured on Elsmore Road ready to carry out the detonation.

SKY NEWS Theresa May says the terror threat remains "severe"

Greater Manchester Police said the controlled explosion is connected to the ongoing terrorism investigation. Police said in a statement: “Police have executed warrants, one in Whalley Range, and one in Fallowfield, where a controlled explosion took place, as part of the investigation into last night’s horrific attack at the Manchester arena.” Police activity has centred on a flat in a newly-built four-storey block of apartments in Carlton Street in Whalley Range, a mile from the other address being raided in south Manchester. Officers stood guard outside the entrance while more uniformed police and detectives in suits could be seen entering the building.

AFP GETTY Armed police patrol near Victoria station in Manchester

It was not known if this was the same address where police carried out a controlled explosion. Ian Hopkins, Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police, said authorities believe the attack was conducted by one man using an improvised device, who died at the Manchester Arena. Police are now trying to determine whether he was working as part of a larger terror cell. Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: “This has been the most horrific incident we have had to face in Greater Manchester and one that we all hoped we would never see.

REUTERS Home Secretary Amber Rudd arrives at Downing Street for an emergency cabinet meeting

“Families and many young people were out to enjoy a concert at the Manchester Arena and have lost their lives. “Our thoughts are with those 22 victims that we now know have died, the 59 people who have been injured and their loved ones. “We continue to do all we can to support them." Who are the victims of Manchester terror attack?

The first victim of the suicide bombing has been named as teenager Georgina Callander. Friends said the 18-year-old, who had met Ariana Grande two years ago, was one of the first people taken to hospital after the explosion. A close friend said Georgina died in hospital with her mother at her bedside. Georgina was a student at Runshaw Sixth Form Centre in Leyland, Lancashire. In a statement the college said pupils are being offered counselling as it paid tribute to Georgina. Runshaw Sixth Form Centre said: “It is with enormous sadness that it appears that one of the people who lost their lives in Monday’s Manchester attack was one of our students here at Runshaw College. “Georgina Callander was a former Bishop Rawstorne pupil studying with us on the second year of her Health and Social Care course. “Our deepest sympathies, thoughts and prayers go out to all of Georgina’s friends, family, and all of those affected by this loss. “We are offering all available support possible at this tragic time, including counselling with our dedicated student support team.” The second victim has been named as eight-year-old Saffie Rose Roussos.

She was at the concert with her mother Lisa Roussos and Saffie's sister, Ashlee Bromwich, aged in her 20s, from Leyland, Lancashire, who are both now in separate hospitals being treated for injuries, friends said. Almost £300,000 has been raised by the Manchester Evening News newspaper to support the families of the victims. An appeal was posted on Facebook searching for the youngster after the concert. Lancashire County Council confirmed Saffie was killed in the bombing. A 26-year-old man from Bury has been named as one of the dead. John Atkinson, from Radcliffe, is understood to have been leaving the concert when the suicide bomber struck. Tributes have poured in, with Lee Paul posting on Facebook: “Sleep tight John Atkinson. Thoughts and prayers with all your family and the other 21 people who lost there lives last night.” Several fundraising campaigns have been launched to support the families of the killed and injured.

GETTY A man embraces a teenager as he collects her from the Park Inn Hotel where they were given refuge

Meanwhile, the mother of 15-year-old Olivia Campbell confirmed her daughter has passed away in a heartrending Facebook post early on Wednesday morning. Charlotte Campbell confirmed the devastating news, writing: “RIP my darling precious gorgeous girl Olivia Campbell taken far far to soon go sing with the angels and keep smiling mummy loves you so much.” Earlier on Tuesday, Good Morning Britain viewers were left in tears as Piers Morgan and Susanna Reid spoke to Ms Campbell, who was desperately searching for her missing daughter. Kelly Brewster, a 32-year-old woman from Sheffield, was also killed in the horrific attack. Her boyfriend, Ian Winslow, took to Facebook to confirm the news. He wrote: "Not sure how this works but it isn't good news. Kelly Brewster wasn't one of the unidentified hospital patients. She has sadly passed away in the terror attack yesterday. "Kelly really was the happiest she has ever been and we had so many things planned together. My daughter Phoebe will be absolutely devastated like we all are. "Love you loads X."

PA Flowers have been laid outside Manchester Arena

Early on Wednesday morning, the families of Alison Howe and Lisa Lees confirmed that the two women were also among the victims of Monday evening's attack. Alison Howe, 45, and Lisa Lees, 47, from Oldham, were waiting to collect their 15-year-old daughters in the foyer when the blast occurred. Their daughters are believed to be safe.

PA The scene at Manchester Royal Infirmary as the death toll from the Manchester bomb attack uses to 22

A child reported missing has been found in hospital suffering from serious injuries. Laura MacIntyre, 15, was attending the event with her friend Eilidh MacLeod, who remains missing. Family friend and SNP candidate Angus MacNeil said this evening: “Laura is alive in hospital and is in a serious condition. We are obviously still extremely worried about Eilidh. We have no news at the moment.” A vigil will be held for the victims at Albert Square, Manchester at 6pm tonight. Queues have formed outside the Blood Donor Centre in Manchester this morning. Nationally, blood donors have been urged to keep their appointments to give blood. NHS Blood and Transplant (NHS BT) encouraged donors who have already planned to donate in coming days to keep their appointments, particularly if they are blood group O negative. O negative blood is rare but it is the only blood type that can be given to anyone, regardless of their blood type. NHS workers have been hailed as heroes for their response to the attack with off-duty medics offering to help local hospitals treating the wounded. Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said a "fast-moving investigation" had established the attack was conducted by one man, although detectives are working to establish if he was "was acting alone or as part of a network". “The attacker, I can confirm, died at the arena. “We believe the attacker was carrying an improvised explosive device which he detonated, causing this atrocity.” Local hotels took in panicked youngsters and taxi drivers offered free lifts to concertgoers attempting to get home.

GETTY Police evacuate the Arndale Centre hours after the Manchester Arena attack

Police from neighbouring force Merseyside have travelled to Manchester to help the investigation. Across the country police forces have warned there will be extra patrols as a mosque was set on fire in Manchester in the wake of the attack. Manchester Arena bombing carried out by suicide bomber with IED Manchester Arena said in a statement: “Last night, our community suffered a senseless tragedy. Our entire team’s thoughts and focus are now on supporting the people affected and their families. “We are assisting the police in any way we can. “We cannot praise the emergency services enough for their response and have been inspired by the way the people of this great city of Manchester rallied round last night and have continued to respond today. It shows the very best of this city. “Again, out thoughts and deepest condolences are with all of those affected by last night’s tragedy.”

REUTERS Forensic police search the Manchester Arena

One Twitter user wrote: "Honestly worst night of my existence. Just kept running from Manchester Arena for my life." Another added: “Just got out of Manchester Arena after seeing Ariana perform. There was a loud bang when the lights came on & everyone ran out screaming.” British Transport Police said: "Officers are at Manchester Arena following reports of an explosion within the foyer area of the stadium at 10.30pm this evening. "Emergency services are at the scene and we are working to establish more information regarding the explosion and will provide further updates as soon as possible." Social media users tweeted '#RoomForManchester' to offer places to stay for the night for those unable to get home following the incident. Facebook activated its safety check for people in the area to let friends and family know they are safe. Ian Hopkins, Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police, said the injured are being treated at eight hospitals in the local area. Manchester terror attack - helpline number if your loved ones are missing

PA A forensics team member removing a book titled 'Know Your Chemicals' from Manchester flat

The Manchester North West ambulance service says it has taken 59 casualties from Manchester Arena to hospitals. It has also treated "a number of walking wounded on scene". A total of 60 ambulances attended the scene. Police have asked people not to call the emergency services unless they are in a life-threatening condition as authorities try to deal with the incident. Hospitals are reportedly treating people with "shrapnel type injuries".

INSTAGRAM The first victim of the suicide bombing has been named as teenager Georgina Callander

Police searched an abandoned car near the venue in connection with the incident. A controlled explosion of a second suspect device has been carried out in the Cathedral Gardens area near Manchester Arena. Police have said the controlled explosion was carried out as a precaution, and that the destroyed item turned out to be abandoned clothing. As forensic officers search the area, distraught parents continue to search for missing youngsters. Manchester terror attack: NHS pleads for blood donors - here's how you can help

Ms Campbell said she had been at home "phoning everybody - hospitals, police, all these centres that the children have been put in". “Her dad is actually in Manchester looking for her. I've got friends out looking for her, I've got people I don't even know out looking for her. “I’ve got people messaging me saying 'Look, we've got her photo and we're out looking for her - we'll get in contact with you if we see her'. “I’m just hearing nothing - her phone's dead.” She posted a picture of her daughter on Facebook saying “please share my daughter is still missing with no news on her”. Ms Campbell said social media had been “wonderful” and thanked those who were helping with the search. Manchester terror attack: Photos of missing children spread online from desperate families

NC 'One in a million' John Atkinson has been named as a victim of the attack

A headteacher in Cheshire has also spoken of the “unbelievably difficult” situation with one student missing. Denis Oliver, headteacher at Holmes Chapel Comprehensive School, said: "We are this morning offering support to a number of students and their families who were affected by the shocking events in Manchester last evening. "A number of students attended the event and we are able to report that the majority of them returned were physically unharmed but many of them, their parents and their friends are understandably upset this morning. "We believe that one student remains unaccounted for and I have spoken directly with the family. "This is an unbelievably difficult time for everyone affected by this terrible incident and our thoughts are with the families most affected. "It would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage." He later added: “Today has been a very difficult day for the school, children and families following the terrible events of yesterday evening. The children have been very stoic throughout the day, which has been as calm and purposeful as possible in the circumstances. "Our children and staff have supported each other amazingly well. Staff have been providing additional time and space for children to be with their friends or to talk to an adult. The whole school community has been incredibly mutually supportive. “We know that one of our students was badly injured and is in hospital and a second is still unaccounted for and our thoughts are with the families, in what is a most difficult time for them. There is lots of information circulating, not all of it is accurate. We are working closely with the parents of the children and are therefore asking for everyone to respect the privacy of the families. “The school has made no comment or contributed to any form of social media. Current information and any updates will be posted on the school website.” The student has been named as Nell Jones, 14, a member of Knutsford Young Farmers. The group posted an appeal for information on Twitter which said: “One of our members and close friend Nell Jones was at the concert last night and sadly is still missing. "If anyone hears from Nell please let someone know! #PrayForNell. "Please share!"

TWITTER Emergency services rushed to the scene

REUTERS Stunned concertgoers are tended to by emergency services

The Queen has expressed her "deepest sympathy" to all those affected by the Manchester bomb attack, adding that "the whole nation has been shocked by the death and injury". She said: “The whole nation has been shocked by the death and injury in Manchester last night of so many people, adults and children, who had just been enjoying a concert. “I know I speak for everyone in expressing my deepest sympathy to all who have been affected by this dreadful event and especially to the families and friends of those who have died or were injured. “I want to thank all the members of the emergency services, who have responded with such professionalism and care. “And I would like to express my admiration for the way the people of Manchester have responded, with humanity and compassion, to this act of barbarity.” Prince Charles also expressed his condolences. In a statement he said: “My wife and I were so profoundly shocked to learn of the truly dreadful event which took place in Manchester last night. “That such a large number of people, including so many young concert-goers, lost their lives or have suffered so much in this appalling atrocity is deeply distressing and fills us with intense sadness. “Words cannot adequately express what so many families must be feeling at this incredibly difficult time and our most heartfelt sympathy is with all those who have so tragically lost loved ones or who have been affected in some way.”

And the Duke of Cambridge has expressed his shock and sadness at the Manchester Arena bombing. William, father to Prince George and Princess Charlotte, said he, the Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry were sending their thoughts to the friends, parents, children and partners left "confronting unimaginable grief". The Duke said in a statement released by Kensington Palace: "Like everyone, Catherine, Harry and I are left shocked and saddened by the tragedy that unfolded in Manchester overnight. "Hundreds of friends, parents, children, and partners are confronting unimaginable grief today, and we send our thoughts to them all. "We also send our thanks to the people of Manchester for their display of strength, decency, and community that is an example to the world." In a rare public statement MI5 director general Andrew Parker condemned the "revolting attack". Mr Parker said the security service remains "relentlessly focused, in numerous current operations, on doing all we can to combat the scourge of terrorism and keep the country safe". The Prime Minister spoke with Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn in the hours after the bomb attack which killed 22 in Manchester and agreed to put the contest on hold until further notice.

TWITTER Ariana Grande's reaction to the blast

The Prime Minister cancelled a planned visit to the South West to chair a meeting of the Government's emergency Cobra committee in Whitehall. All major parties have postponed election campaigning due to the incident, with Ukip and the SNP cancelling their manifesto launches. Home Secretary Amber Rudd, Transport Secretary Chris Grayling, Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon and Health Minister Philip Dunne all attended the meeting at Number 10. Manchester Metro Mayor Andy Burnham and Security Minister Ben Wallace joined the meeting by video-link from Manchester. Also present were representatives of the police, including the UK's most senior counter-terrorism officer, Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner Mark Rowley, as well as security agencies and Whitehall officials. Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron called off a campaigning trip to Gibraltar, while the Scottish National Party postponed the planned launch of its manifesto. In a statement, the Prime Minister said: "We are working to establish the full details of what is being treated by the police as an appalling terrorist attack. "All our thoughts are with the victims and the families of those who have been affected." Flags in Downing Street have been lowered to half-mast in honour of those killed and injured. The UN has condemned last night’s attack “in the strongest terms”. They said the bombing was “barbaric and cowardly terrorist” and vowed to “cooperate actively with the government of United Kingdom and all other relevant authorities”.

EXPRESS At least 22 people have died in the suicide bombing at Manchester Arena

Chancellor Philip Hammond, arriving for a summit of EU finance ministers in Brussels, said: “I have woken up this morning to the terrible news of this barbaric attack in Manchester. “It is, as far as we know, a terrorist incident. We are treating it as such. “My thoughts are with the victims and their families and the people of Manchester and I would like to pay tribute to the emergency services who have done a great job throughout the night and are continuing to work at the scene.” First Minister Nicola Sturgeon was expected to host a meeting of the Scottish Government's Resilience Committee on Tuesday morning in response to the explosion. The SNP cancelled all campaigning for the day and also took the decision to delay its manifesto launch following the horrific events. Manchester terror WAS planned: ISIS cheerleaders tweeted on arena attack hours BEFORE bomb Ms Sturgeon said: “My thoughts are with the victims, their families and all those who have been affected by this barbaric attack in Manchester. “The Scottish Government is working with Police Scotland and the UK Government to ensure that we have a full understanding of the developing situation. “I will convene a meeting of the Scottish Government's Resilience Committee this morning to receive an update and to consider any implications for Scotland." The First Minister confirmed police are in contact with the families of Scottish teenagers who are missing after the attack.

PA Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham branded the attack "an evil act"

Politicians including Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and Lib Dem leader Tim Farron have reacted to the news of the blast at the Manchester Arena. Mr Corbyn tweeted: "Terrible incident in Manchester. My thoughts are with all those affected and our brilliant emergency services." He expressed his condolences as he condemned the attack saying he was “shocked and appalled”. Mr Corbyn said: “We do not allow our communities to be divided by the appalling, atrocious act of violence.” Meanwhile, Home Secretary Amber Rudd urged the public to "remain alert but not alarmed". In a statement, she said: “This was a barbaric attack, deliberately targeting some of the most vulnerable in our society – young people and children out at a pop concert. "My thoughts and prayers go out to the families and victims who have been affected, and I know the whole country will share that view. "I’d like to pay tribute to the emergency services who have worked throughout the night professionally and effectively; they have done an excellent job. Commuters have been warned to check with local bus, rail and tram operators before they travel this morning, services around Manchester City Centre have been amended.

Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said: “It is hard to believe what has happened here in the last few hours, and to put into words the shock, anger, and hurt that we feel today. “These were children, young people and their families that those responsible chose to terrorise and kill. “This was an evil act.” “We are grieving today but we are strong. Today it will be business as usual as far as possible in our great city, “I want to thank the hundreds of police, fire and ambulance staff who worked through the night in the worse cirumstances imaginable. “I want to thank the people of Manchester even in the minutes after the attack they opened their doors to tanagers and drove them away form danger. They gave the best possible immediate respond to those that seek to divide us. “It will be that spirit of Manchester that will hold us together.”

Defiant Mancunians packed out Piccadilly Gardens to listen to a busker singing All You Need Is Love and Everything’s Gonna Be Alright. Busker Sam Fairbrother even adapted the lyrics of Bob Marley's Everything's Gonna Be Alright to include a reference to the 1996 IRA bomb that struck the city. "We were all right in the 90s and came back stronger," he sang. The 30-year-old from Sale, said he had given up his usual plan of playing for money elsewhere in the city. He said: “I woke up at 5am and heard the news and I was just crying. “I just thought I had to do something so I've come down here to play three songs on a loop all day and I'm not asking for money, it's not about that.”

EPA Manchester United players held a minute's silence before training today

As music venues announced their plans to host Tuesday night gigs as planned, citizens left impromptu tributes on paper placed on a table outside Cass Art, on Oldham Street in the Northern Quarter. Messages included "stay strong" and "hope not fear" as life in the northern part of the city centre appeared to return to relative normality after the attack, which killed 22 people, including children, after US pop star Ariana Grande finished her performance at Manchester Arena. Rail strikes planned by workers at three rail operators in bitter disputes over driver-controlled trains have been called off in light of the bombing in Manchester. Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union on Southern Railway, Arriva Rail North and Merseyrail were due to walk out for 24 hours on May 30. Transport for Greater Manchester as major stations closed after Manchester Arena terror attack London Mayor Sadiq Khan said police are reviewing security arrangements in London. The Metropolitan Police confirmed extra officers have been deployed in the wake of the attack. Met Police Commissioner Cressida Dick branded the attack “utterly appalling”.

Celebrities and politicians react to Manchester ‘terror attack’ at Ariana Grande gig Tue, May 23, 2017 Celebrities and politicians have been tweeting their condolences for the victims of the sickening attack at the Manchester Arena Play slideshow 1 of 14

US President Donald Trump , who is currently on a visit to Israel, is being kept updated as the investigation unfolds. White House press secretary Sean Spicer tweeted: “National Security Team is providing updates to @POTUS on situation in #manchesterexplosion”. Mr Trump expressed his “deepest condolences” to the victims of the Manchester bombing calling those responsible “evil losers”. He said: “So many young, beautiful, innocent people, living and enjoying their lives, murdered by the evil losers in life. “I won't call them 'monsters', because they would like that term. They would think that a great name. “I will call them from now on 'losers', because that is what they are. They are losers. We will have more of them, but they are losers, just remember that.” Mr Trump has spoken to the Prime Minister on the phone to offer his condolences and support on behalf of the US. US First Lady Melania Trump tweeted: "My thoughts and prayers to the families of #Manchester." During the night US officials were quick to say the attack was a suicide bombing, before British authorities had confirmed any details, sparking concerns over intelligence sharing. One US official said: "This does not appear to have been a carefully planned attack involving multiple actors, extensive surveillance of the target or exotic materials. "That is what is so worrisome about this kind of thing - how simple it is to indiscriminately kill, wound and terrorise innocent people. “With our partners, the US has begun the process of combing through the available intelligence to see if anything was missed."

EXPRESS Manchester Arena - The bomb was set off in the foyer as thousands of people left the concert

The leaders of Russia, Germany and France pledged to stand united with Britain in the fight against terror. German Chancellor Angela Merkel says the suspected terror attack “will strengthen our resolve to fight despicable perpetrators together with out British friends.” Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed Russia is ready to step up its anti-terror co-operation with the UK. The Kremlin said Mr Putin offered his condolences over the attack. European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said: "It was with great sadness and profound shock that I learnt of the brutal attack that struck Manchester. “It breaks my heart to think that, once again, terrorism has sought to instil fear where there should be joy, to sow division where young people and families should be coming together in celebration. “I would like to convey my deepest sympathies to Prime Minister May and to the British people. “Today we mourn with you. Tomorrow we will work side by side with you to fight back against those who seek to destroy our way of life. “They underestimate ours and your resilience – these cowardly attacks will only strengthen our commitment to work together to defeat the perpetrators of such vile acts." Mr Junker’s spokesman said flags will fly at half mast at the European Commission in solidarity with the British people. French president Emmanuel Macron said the French government will continue to work with Britain over fighting terrorism.

Kids were crying, mums were picking their kids up and running for the exits - there were people lying injured and being trampled on as everyone tried to get out Matt Ledger

Mr Macron is due to speak to Prime Minister Theresa ay over the phone and his office will be kept informed of investigation developments. French prime minister Edouard Philippe said: “The most cowardly form of terrorism has struck once more, targeting, as it did in Paris more than a year ago, a concert venue, aimed specifically and knowingly at very young girls gathered together for a moment of celebration and joy. “In the wake of this abominable crime, I would like to express my sadness, the solidarity of the French people and unwavering friendship to Mancunians and all British people.” Italian PM Paolo Gentiloni said: “Italy joins the people and government of the UK. Our thoughts to the victims of the Manchester attack and to their families”. Elsewhere Spanish King Felipe led a minute’s silence in memory of the Manchester Arena victims as Cannes Film Festival also announced plans to honour the victims. Spanish Prime Mister Mariano Rajoy said: “I condemn the Manchester attack. My regret to the families of the deceased victims and my desire for a speedy recovery of the wounded.” Spain’s embassy in the UK also responded to the tragedy, tweeting: “Sorry and shocked by the events of #ManchesterArena. Our heart with the victims.”

TWITTER Concert-goers pictured fleeing the scene

Taoiseach Enda Kenny said he was heartbroken for all those affected by the attack. He said: “The vile acts carried out in Manchester last night are a reminder of the depravity of the views held by the few. “Those beliefs have no place in our society. “My thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families and all those affected by this atrocity. I am heartbroken for all.” Mr Kenny also offered solidarity from the Irish people to those affected.

REUTERS Thousands of people were forced to flee as the bomb rocked the arena

The Muslim Council of Britain said the Manchester attack was “horrific” and “criminal”. Secretary general Harun Khan said: “May the perpetrators face the full weight of justice both in this life and the next. “I pay tribute to the police and emergency services who have worked valiantly to save lives last night. “They were helped by civilians who rushed in to offer their support. “I urge all those in the region and around the country to pull together to support those affected.” The Dean of Manchester, Rogers Govender, described the attack as "despicable and pure evil" and held prayers at the police cordon on Deansgate. He said he normally held prayers at the city's cathedral in the morning but he could not get to the building which is inside the sealed-off zone, between the cordon and the arena.

REUTERS More than 50 people were injured in the blast

Brendan Cox, the widower of murdered MP Jo Cox, wrote on Twitter: “Thinking of every family whose lives have been destroyed today by a cowardly hate filled attack. So much pain and so pointless. “The pain these attacks inflict is profound & real, & it lasts long after the headlines have moved on. “Britain will respond as it always does under attack; with love for the bereaved, unity & resolve. They will not change us. They will not win.” Twisted ISIS supporters took to social media to celebrate the terror attack hours before ISIS celebrated responsibility for the attack.

Witnesses have described the moments after the explosion amid fears the suicide bomber used a nail bomb in the blast. Chris Parker, 33, tearfully described the moment a woman died in his arms from the bomb set off as fans left the Manchester Arena. He recalled: “Everyone was piling out, all happy and everything else. As people were coming out of the glass doors I heard a bang and within a split second I saw a white flash, then smoke and then I heard screaming. “It knocked me to the floor and then I got up and instead of running away my gut instinct was to run back and try and help. “There was people lying on the floor everywhere. “I saw a little girl ... she had no legs. I wrapped her in one of the merchandise T-shirts and I said 'where is your mum and daddy?' She said 'my dad is at work, my mum is up there’.” Mr Parker, who has slept rough in the city for about a year, said he also tended to a woman aged in her 60s who was badly hurt from the bombing with serious leg and head injuries. He said: “She passed away in my arms. She was in her 60s and said she had been with her family. “I haven't stopped crying. “The most shocking part of it is that it was a kids' concert. “There were nuts and bolts all over the floor. People had holes in their back. “It's the screams I can't get over and the smell ... I don't like to say it but it smelled like burning flesh. “I don't think anything has sunk in yet. It's just shock.”

PA

John Young was leaving the concert with his wife and daughter slightly early in an attempt to beat the traffic when the explosion happened. They were on the steps at the arena's main entrance when they heard a "massive bang", he said, calling the atmosphere "surreal". He told Sky News: “There were young children, terrified, crying their eyes out, I saw an elderly man shaking, there were all sorts but nobody seemed to know what had happened. “My daughter was in absolute bits last night. No nine-year-old girl should see anything like that. “It should have been the best day of her life, and it turned into the worst one really. “I dread to think what would have happened if I hadn't said 'let's leave slightly early’.”

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The Mayor of Liverpool Steve Rotherham’s daughters were caught up in the terror attack. His daughters, aged 21 and 19, were given the concert tickets as a Christmas present. Mr Rotherham said they were inside the area when the bomb went off. He said: "They saw people with blood all over them. “Samantha described a man dripping with blood from his face. They saw some horrific injuries. “They are very shaken."

TWITTER Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn's tweet following the incident

Matt Ledger, 19, who was at the concert with two friends, told Express.co.uk: “We were at the arena and we heard a huge bang. “Kids were crying, mums were picking their kids up and running for the exits - there were people lying injured and being trampled on as everyone tried to get out. “The bang made everyone shake.” Jenny, who was with her daughter Evie, told Sky News: "It was full of beautiful young girls and beautiful families it’s just tragic to think that such a great family evening has now ended in such horror." Concertgoers and people near the area also took to Twitter to report that "loud bangs" and an "explosion" were heard in the aftermath.

One person tweeted: "The explosion happened 30 seconds after Ariana got off stage in Manchester Arena, so terrifying." Another Twitter user posted: "Just been at Manchester Arena and heard a massive bang, saw smoke and everyone just started running and screaming." Speaking to MEN, eyewitness Sasina Akhtar said she saw young girls screaming with "blood on them" after the loud bangs were heard. She said: “She did her last song, we were in the lower tier and there was an explosion behind us at the back of the arena. “We saw young girls with blood on them, everyone was screaming and people were running. There was lots of smoke.

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Concertgoer Majid Khan, 22, added: "I and my sister, along with a lot of others were seeing Ariana Grande perform at Manchester Arena, and we were all exiting the venue when around 10.40-10.45pm-ish a huge bomb-like bang went off that hugely panicked everyone and we were all trying to flee the arena. "It was one bang and essentially everyone from the other side of the arena where the bang was heard from suddenly came running towards us as they were trying to exit Trinity Way and that was blocked so everyone was just running to any exit they could find as quickly as they could. "Everyone was in a huge state of panic, calling each other as some had gone to the toilet whilst this had gone off, so it was just extremely disturbing for everyone there."

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Suzy Mitchell, 26, who lives opposite the venue, said a huge bang rocked the venue. She said: “[I] just heard a huge bang from my bed, came out to the front of my apartments (we're on the top floor so have perfect view) and everyone was running away in big crowds. "The bang was so big I heard it from my room which is at the back of the apartment blocks. "Currently lots of emergency services going to and from. But can't see anything substantial as of yet except fleeing people and lots of cars."

LNP Injured concert-goers being helped by police

Jane Pearson, 46, a high school English language mentor from Chadderton, Greater Manchester, had gone to the concert with her daughter Rachel, 21, as a birthday treat. Mrs Pearson said she was in the block of seats next to where the explosion occurred. She said: "Well it was just at the actual final moment of the concert. Then all of a sudden this loud explosion, followed by a ton of smoke was coming up from the left of me. "Then just absolute chaos. Disbelief, everybody running over each other not quite knowing what had gone on. Mad chaotic rush to nearest exit, lots of people crying and wailing. Really upsetting for everyone concerned. "There was people bleeding, and lots of people being separated, very scary, very upsetting but obviously we believe there has been fatalities. "It's just a terrible thing. Who could do this at a concert where there's children and families? Its just unbelievable." Mrs Pearson added: "I just feel for everybody that's been injured and those that have been killed."

Experts have said the Manchester bomber employed a more “sophisticated” method of attack. Former police officer Chris Phillips said the explosive device may have been packed with nuts and bolts, so-called "dockyard confetti", to cause maximum damage. The counter-terrorism expert described the latest attack to hit the UK as "a step up". He told BBC Radio 4's Today programme:”I think the point is that this was obviously a planned attack and that will involve people looking at the venue and seeing how the venue operates. “And also the fact that it sounds like this was a strapped on suicide belt and also from what we just heard, perhaps, with what we call dockyard confetti which is the little bits of nuts and bolts that are attached to the vest. “And those unfortunately are there deliberately to kill people and that's the whole purpose of them. “This does look like a step up and my worry, and I think the police's worry now, is that this person probably wasn't acting alone and there are other people that to be captured.” Former global terrorism operations director at MI6, Richard Barrett, said, while the attack was more sophisticated than recent ones, it does not automatically mean the person responsible was trained abroad to carry out the massacre. He told Today: “I think people can build bombs, we have seen that in the past that it may be not that complicated to build a bomb which has an effect on the people immediately around you as this one certainly did. “Yeah, sure that's a bit more sophisticated clearly than driving a car into people or stabbing them with a knife but I'm not sure that it requires somebody to go to Syria for example, to have training there to get that sort of expertise so I'm sure the police will be very interested indeed to look at whoever is responsible, what he has been doing over the last months.”

Some early reports suggested the loud bangs may have been caused by a blown speaker. The explosion was heard moments after the concert finished as the lights went up in the area. Trainlines out of Manchester Victoria station are currently blocked and will not be operational on Tuesday morning. Monday night's performance was Ariana Grande's first UK show of her Dangerous Woman Tour, but following the blast the tour has been cancelled indefinitely. After performing at the 21,000-capacity Manchester venue, the 23-year-old singer had been due to play the first of two nights at London's O2 Arena on Thursday. The attack has seen an outpouring of grief with comedian Jason Manford publishing an emotional video. Celebrities have expressed their shock and paid tribute to the victims. Liam Gallagher wrote: "In total shock and absolutely devastated about what's gone down in Manchester." The frontman from former Manchester band Oasis added: "Sending Love and Light to all the families involved LG x"

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TWITTER Images have emerged on social media of concert-goers fleeing the scene

Take That singer Gary Barlow wrote: "Sad, sad news from Manchester. Praying for all the victims and families involved." Take That have cancelled their Liverpool tour date on Tuesday and O2 concertgoers have been warned to expect tighter security checks at the O2 Arena in the wake of the explosion at Ariana Grande's Manchester date. The band was supposed to be performing its Wonderland tour at the Liverpool Echo Arena on Tuesday evening and was booked into the Manchester Arena for Thursday, Friday and Saturday in their home town, but tweeted they were pulling out of Tuesday's show as a mark of respect to the victims of the attack. David Beckham, who played for Manchester United, posted on Facebook: "Heartbreaking news from Manchester. "As a father and a human what has happened truly saddens me. My thoughts are with all of those that have been affected by this tragedy..." Victoria Beckham said: “My heartfelt thoughts and prayers with all those affected by the tragedy in Manchester last night.” Manchester City Football Club said: “The thoughts and prayers of everyone at MCFC are those affected following the horrifying events of last night.” Manchester United said: “We are deeply shocked by last night’s terrible events at the Manchester Arena. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those affected.” The football club said Old Trafford's Megastore, Museum, Red Cafe and Stadium Tour are all closed to the public on Tuesday. Footballer Wayne Rooney said: “Devastating news this morning. Thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.”

Mourning for Manchester: The world pays tribute Thu, May 25, 2017 Makeshift memorials and tributes to victims of the deadly attack at an Ariana Grande concert. Play slideshow REUTERS 1 of 41 Britain's Queen Elizabeth visits the Royal Manchester Children's Hospital in Manchester