Liam Gallagher and David Beckham have posted heartbreaking tributes after last night’s devastating terror attack on Manchester.
After a suicide bomber detonated an explosive device following a concert at the Manchester arena, musicians and celebrities across the globe have come together to pay tribute.
Manchester born Liam Gallagher of Oasis was one of the first on Twitter, paying respect to all those who lost their lives in the horrific explosion.
In his tweet, he said he was in ‘total shock’ and ‘devastated’ about the atrocities which took place in his home city – famous for its world class music scene.
He wrote:
In total shock and absolutely devastated about what’s gone down in MANCHESTER sending Love and Light to all the family’s involved LG x
In total shock and absolutely devastated about what's gone down in MANCHESTER sending Love and Light to all the family's involved LG x
— Liam Gallagher (@liamgallagher) May 23, 2017
The Smiths guitarist and solo artist Johnny Marr, also posted a heartfelt message to Twitter last night, after news broke of the appalling devastation, unleashed by a cruel and callous attack on innocent music fans.
The musician posted a simple message, which reflected the true strength and unity of the UK’s second city, standing ‘strong,’ and together in the face of evil and brutality.
He shared:
Manchester stands together.
Manchester stands together.
— Johnny Marr (@Johnny_Marr) May 23, 2017
Former Manchester United player David Beckham has also shared a message of sympathy and condolences via his Instagram page, paying his respects to the those who have lost their lives in the deeply upsetting incident.
He posted:
Heartbreaking news from Manchester. As a father & a human what has happened truly saddens me. My thoughts are with all of those that have been affected by this tragedy…
Another former Manchester United player Cristiano Ronaldo has also tweeted a sobering picture of the Union Jack this morning, after hearing news of the terrible atrocity in the city of his former club.
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) May 23, 2017
The Jungle Book actor Idris Elba shared his horror and disgust on Twitter, sending his love towards the families and victims.
He said:
Mate, that is fucking horrible what happened in Manchester. My heart goes out to the families of those who lost their lives. No
Mate, that is fucking horrible what happened in Manchester. My heart goes out to the families of those who lost their lives. ??No
— Idris Elba (@idriselba) May 23, 2017
A shaken Ariana Grande tweeted a message of sorrow in the early hours of this morning, after her only tour date in the northern city.
She shared:
broken.
from the bottom of my heart, i am so so sorry. i don't have words.— Ariana Grande (@ArianaGrande) May 23, 2017
The appalling attack took place just after the popstar had finished her act at about 10:35pm – just when the lights were coming on- prime time for people leaving the arena.
So far, 22 people have been killed and 120 injured, with the first victim named as 16-year-old Georgina Callander and the second, as eight-year-old girl Saffie Rose Roussos.
A third victim has now been named as 26-year-old John Atkinson from Bury, with police saying the fatalities are expected to rise.
Rest in peace John Atkinson, 26 years old passed away after the terror attack last night ?? #PrayForManchester
— Natasha (@ScottishGrande) May 23, 2017
Shortly after, horrendous footage emerged of people covered in blood and injured as they desperately tried to make their way out of the venue.
The bomber behind the blast is confirmed to have died and was later named as Salman Abedi.
Suspected Explosions Occurred Moments After @ArianaGrande Finished Performing At The Manchester Arenapic.twitter.com/WxmwwHFjpb
— Boo (@P4tR10tBoo) May 22, 2017
Minutes after the attack, fleets of ambulances, police cars and the bomb disposal unit were dispatched to the scene, taking with them the many, injured young people back to hospital and treating the walking wounded at the scene.
Later on, a believed-to-be suspicious package was found and detonated in a controlled explosion by police in Cathedral Gardens in the city centre, but it was thankfully confirmed to be abandoned clothing.
Following the attack, Victoria station – next to the arena – was closed off and all travel in or out completely suspended, including the tram network.
In the aftermath of the frightening attack, hundreds of Manchester residents came together to offer support, as well as spare rooms, free beds, sofas or even just a cup of coffee for those stranded and lost in the city centre.
The #roomformanchester hashtag was quickly set up and soon went viral, as local people and businesses offered to help in any way they could.
Police are encouraging anyone with any photos or information regarding the horrific attack to send them to: ukpoliceimageappeal.co.uk or upload them at: ukpoliceimageappeal.com.
Latest statement on incident at Manchester Arena @CCIanHopkins pic.twitter.com/LDG1wgX2sT
— G M Police (@gmpolice) May 23, 2017
They are also urging people with any information at all, to come forward and call the terrorist hotline on: 0800 789 321.
Early this morning, Greater Manchester police released a statement claiming it was ‘the most horrific incident we have had to face’ and condemning those behind this despicable attack on the city.
The emergency number for anyone looking for and worried loved ones is: 0161 856 9400.
A harrowing attack on a vibrant city. Thoughts are with all of those affected at this awful time and with the families of those who have tragically lost their lives.