GETTY Islamic State has claimed responsibility for last night's Manchester explosion

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The group said one of its "soldiers" carried out the attack, which took place during an Ariana Grande concert at Manchester Arena. A spokesman said: "One of the soldiers of the caliphate was able to place an explosive device within a gathering of the Crusaders in the city of Manchester." The statement was posted on Telegram, an encrypted app used by many ISIS fighters and supporters to evade security services.

Our values, our country and our way of life will always prevail Theresa May

This morning Theresa May said police and security services believed they knew the identify of the lone bomber. She said had chosen the time and place of his attack to cause "maximum carnage and to kill and injure indiscriminately". Speaking outside Downing Street, the PM paid tribute to emergency workers and members of the public who rushed to help the victims. And she vowed: "The terrorists will never win and our values, our country and our way of life will always prevail."

PA The first victim of the attack has been named as Georgina Callander

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

GETTY The PM paid tribute to emergency workers and members of the public

The incident is the worst terror attack in the UK since 56 people were killed in the 7/7 London bombings in 2005. Manchester Arena said the explosion happened outside the 21,000-capacity venue, as Grande's fans began streaming from the doors. More than police 400 officers were deployed on the operation last night, while Manchester Victoria station was evacuated and trains cancelled.

SWNS Hundreds of people are still desperately trying to trace loved ones