Manchester Arena attack: 22 killed at Ariana Grande gig by bomber named as Salman Abedi
Britain's terror threat level increased from severe to critical
Girl, eight, among 22 people killed as 59 also injured in attack
Theresa May: 'Callous attack carried out with cold calculation'
Parents frantically search for missing after Ariana Grande gig
The suicide bomber who brought carnage to the Manchester Arena has been named as Salman Abedi.
Monday night's attack at a concert by US pop star Ariana Grande left 22 people dead, including an eight-year-old girl, and dozens injured.
Theresa May raised Britain's terror threat level from severe to critical and said the military could be deployed to support armed police officers at public events.
Abedi, believed to have been born in Manchester and of Libyan descent, studied business at Salford University but dropped out before completing his degree.
Abedi, who was reportedly known to the security services, is thought to have returned from Libya as recently as this week.
A school friend told The Times: "He went to Libya three weeks ago and came back recently, like days ago."
The 22-year-old is thought to have attended the Manchester Islamic Centre, also known as Didsbury Mosque, along with his parents and siblings.
A family friend, who asked not to be named, described him as "normal" and said they were known to the Libyan community in the city.
He said: "He was always friendly, nothing to suggest (he was violent). He was normal, to be honest."
Abedi was named after armed officers carried out a raid on the red brick semi in south Manchester where he was registered as living.
Greater Manchester Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said detectives were working to establish whether he was working alone or as part of a network.
Residents were ordered to stay inside as around 20 police swooped on a house in Elsmore Road in Fallowfield carrying out a controlled explosion on the front door.
Elsewhere in south Manchester, the first arrest was made in connection with the inquiry when a 23-year-old man was detained near a Morrisons in Chorlton.
Manchester bombing police raids
As counter-terrorism agencies mounted a massive inquiry into the outrage - the worst terrorist attack since 52 innocent people were killed in the July 7 bombings in London in 2005:
The first victims were confirmed as eight-year-old Saffie Rose Roussos from Leyland and teenager Georgina Callander from nearby Chorley
Prime Minister Theresa May denounced the "appalling sickening cowardice" of the suicide bomber
Many of the 59 people hurt in the attack were treated for life-threatening injuries. Twelve of those rushed to hospital were children
Donald Trump denounced those responsible for the atrocity as "evil losers" and pledged America's "absolute solidarity" with the people of the UK
Andrew Parker, the Director General of MI5, condemned the "disgusting attack" and declared that the agency remains "relentlessly focused" on tackling the "scourge of terrorism"
The Islamic State terror group claimed responsibility for the barbaric attack, which involved a home-made device packed with nuts and bolts which exploded in the venue's foyer as thousands of young people were leaving.
Mrs May said the perpetrator had chosen the time and place of his attack deliberately to cause "maximum carnage and to kill and injure indiscriminately".
She flew to Manchester to speak to police chiefs and medics treating some of the child victims.
Crowds of people gathered in the city centre on Tuesday evening, standing together in an act of solidarity and spilling from Albert Square onto nearby roads.
The death of Saffie Rose Roussos, the youngest known victim of the attack, was described by her headteacher as "heartbreaking".
Chris Upton, of Tarleton Community Primary School, said: "Saffie was simply a beautiful little girl in every aspect of the word."
Explosion rocks Ariana Grande concert in Manchester, in pictures
Another victim was named by her college as Georgina Callander, who was studying health and social care at Runshaw College in Leyland, Lancashire.
Tributes were also paid to 26-year-old John Atkinson from Bury, who was named by friends on Facebook as an apparent victim.
Olivia Campbell, a fifteen-year-old, was killed in the Manchester terror attack, her mother said on Tuesday night.
Charlotte Campbell, paid tribute to her daughter on Facebook.
She said: "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."
Anyone with concerns over loved ones can contact 0800 096 0095 for assistance.
Manchester Arena bomb map Key articles | Manchester Arena explosion 6:42AM
New York Yankees 'God Save the Queen' before game
At Yankee Stadium, "God Save the Queen" was played along with "The Star-Spangled Banner" before New York hosted the Kansas City Royals.
"Our thoughts and prayers to the victims in Manchester" the video board read.
"I think you always think about it," Yankees manager Joe Girardi said before the game. "I think our people have done a really good job doing everything they can to protect our fans and protect the players and everyone involved that's here in this building, you me, but you're always worried. I mean, that's the world we live in. So you put your faith in the people that are taking care of us and you trust them."
.@Yankees play 'God Save the Queen' before game vs. @Royalshttps://t.co/po95MqB6oopic.twitter.com/DUq0OEJk5H
— NY Daily News Sports (@NYDNSports) 24 May 2017
Timeline of events
Greater Manchester Police has released a timeline of events on the night of the attack, which states that the first call it received concerning the attack came at 10.33pm.
Timeline of events - Manchester Arena pic.twitter.com/jqiF3lI8zw
— G M Police (@gmpolice) May 24, 2017
Outrage as Milo Yiannopoulos criticises Ariana Grande for being 'pro-Islam' after Manchester attack
Milo Yiannopoulos, the ultra-conservative British media personality in the US, has prompted outrage on social media after he criticised singer Ariana Grande for being "pro-Islam", less than a day after a terror attack at her Manchester concert.
The former Breitbart editor, who is a prominent figure of America's "alt-right" movement, attacked the singer in a series of posts on Facebook after at least 22 people died in a suicide bombing in the Manchester Arena on Monday night.
"Sadly, Ariana Grande is too stupid to wise up and warn her European fans about the real threats to their freedom and their lives," the 32-year-old wrote.
"She will remain ferociously pro-immigrant, pro-Islam and anti-America. Makes you wonder whether they bombed to attack her or in solidarity."
'Childhood murdered'
A la une de Libé ce mercredi : Manchester, l'enfance assassinée https://t.co/hmk2qcnblnpic.twitter.com/cJpP1HiJFK
— Libération (@libe) May 23, 2017
Here is a round-up of all this morning's front pages.
Stansted anti-terror arrest
A man has been arrested by counter-terror police at Stansted Airport on suspicion he planned on travelling to Syria.
The 37-year-old man was stopped before boarding a flight to Turkey on Tuesday night.
He was arrested on suspicion of preparing for acts of terrorism, although the arrest was not connected to the Manchester Arena attack, Scotland Yard said.
Olivia Campbell confirmed dead by mother
Olivia Campbell, a fifteen-year-old, was killed in the Manchester terror attack, her mother said on Tuesday night.
Ms Campbell's mother, Charlotte Campbell, paid tribute to her daughter on Facebook.
She said: "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."
22 people died and 59 more were taken hospital after an explosive device was detonated at an Ariana Grande concert on Monday night.
A heartbroken Mrs Campbell had broken down in tears on ITV's Good Morning Britain earlier in the day, when her daughter was missing.
She spoke of how she had not spoken to her daughter Olivia since she set off for the event.
"All I know is she was at the Manchester Arena with her friend watching Ariana Grande and she’s not turned up yet.
"I can’t get through to her. I’ve called the hospitals, I’ve called all the places, the hotels where people say that children have been taken.
"I’ve called the police. There’s no news, I’ve just got to wait. I’m waiting at home just in case she turns up here."
Morrissey hits out at Theresa May
Morrissey has hit out at the response by the Prime Minister and leading politicians to the Manchester Arena bombing, saying "the anger is monumental".
The Manchester-born singer criticised statements made by Theresa May, Manchester metro mayor Andy Burnham and London mayor Sadiq Khan in the wake of the attack that left 22 dead and injured dozens.
In a post on his Facebook page the former Smiths frontman said he was celebrating his birthday in the city when news of the atrocity broke.
He said: "The anger is monumental. For what reason will this ever stop?
"Theresa May says such attacks 'will not break us' but her own life is lived in a bullet-proof bubble, and she evidently does not need to identify any young people today in Manchester morgues.
"Also, 'will not break us' means that the tragedy will not break her, or her policies on immigration.
"The young people of Manchester are already broken - thanks all the same, Theresa."
Police: increased threat level will support our ongoing operation
Overnight statement from the Greater Manchester Police:
GMP statement following threat level being raised to critical. pic.twitter.com/eguIOpwfhU
— G M Police (@gmpolice) May 24, 2017
Andy Burnham, the Manchester mayor, pays tribute to NHS staff
Thank you Jordan - and all of our amazing NHS staff https://t.co/LcFEw8LkjP
— Mayor Andy Burnham (@MayorofGM) May 23, 2017
AB: Last night was our darkest night – but we have seen the people of Greater Manchester pull together, and there is some hope in that
— Mayor Andy Burnham (@MayorofGM) May 23, 2017
AB: I spent some time with NHS staff earlier, and I want to recognise their service to the public, dedication and commitment. Thank you
— Mayor Andy Burnham (@MayorofGM) May 23, 2017
Sadiq Khan on what the increased terror threat level means for London
The national threat level has now been raised to 'critical'. Read my statement on what this means for London: https://t.co/fz19o1GuMkpic.twitter.com/PFz8iwpx9M
— Mayor of London (@MayorofLondon) May 23, 2017
'Gaps in our knowledge' about Abedi led to increased threat level
Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner Mark Rowley said "gaps in our knowledge" about Abedi had led to the increased threat level.
The country's senior counter-terrorism officer said initially soldiers would replace police officers at fixed locations but subsequently they could "augment our patrols" at transport hubs and major events. Security arrangements at forthcoming major events will be reviewed.
Wembley tribute
UK terror threat timeline
Orlando pays tribute
Our ❤️ goes out to those affected by the attack on the Manchester Arena. Tonight the Eye will be lit in Union Jack colors. #ManchesterStrongpic.twitter.com/4iAOIoX2Cb
— The Orlando Eye (@theorlandoeye) May 23, 2017
Abedi 'carried out attack days after returning from Libya'
The Times reported the Manchester-born bomber spent three weeks in the war-torn north African nation before the attack on Manchester Arena, in which he was killed.
A friend told the paper: "He went to Libya three weeks ago and came back recently, like days ago."
Eiffel Tower goes dark in tribute
Eiffel Tower goes dark to honor those who died in suicide attack at Manchester Arena. More: https://t.co/Jh8hyL5pqShttps://t.co/h8cKxg6cYq
— NBC News (@NBCNews) May 23, 2017
Could Operation Temperer come into action this weekend?
There are two major sporting events on Saturday: Wembley Stadium is hosting soccer's FA Cup final, which Prince William is due to attend, and Twickenham is hosting rugby's Premiership final.
Ryan Giggs: What happened will never leave us, but Manchester's compassion and spirit will unite and strengthen
Writing in the Telegraph, Giggs said:
I am proud that there have been so many instances already of people trying to help in horrible circumstances. I cannot say that I am surprised and I am sure that over time many stories of kindness will be told. Manchester has great character and its people a kind and warm spirit.
We will never forget the people who have been killed and the families’ lives turned upside down the week. Their loss is immeasurable. But we will support them, and help them in any way we can. At times like these it seems to me that people first need to grieve and then, over time, they also need to be reminded that this is still a great city – an exciting, vibrant place with great universities and opportunities for young people.
Conservatives continue suspension of General Election campaigning
The Conservatives said they would not be campaigning at local or national level on Wednesday.
Fans beg Justin Bieber to cancel British tour dates
Fans of Justin Bieber pleaded on Tuesday for his upcoming British tour dates to be canceled, underscoring the potential repercussions to music acts with a young fan base from the suicide bombing at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester.
Canadian heartthrob Bieber, 23, is due to play an open air concert at London's Hyde Park in July. But fans flooded social media saying his appearance should be axed for the safety both of fans and the singer himself.
"Cancel Justin's concert in the UK, please! We want him to be safe, please," a person using the handle marhrukhh wrote on the Instagram account of Bieber's manager, Scooter Braun.
Theresa May: terror threat level increased from severe to critical
Military personnel may be deployed at public events, the Prime Minister said.
She said "we cannot ignore that there is a wider group of individuals linked to Manchester attack".
"It is now concluded on the basis of today's investigations that the threat level should be increased for the time being from severe to critical," she said in a televised statement following a meeting of the government's crisis response committee.
Explained | UK terror threat levels
"This means that their assessment is not only that an attack remains highly likely but that a further attack may be imminent."
Mrs May continued: "I do not want the public to feel unduly alarmed. "We have faced a serious terror threat in our country for many years and the operational response I have just outlined is a proportionate and sensible response to the threat that our security experts judge we face.
"I ask everybody to be vigilant and to co-operate with and support the police as they go about their important work.
"I want to end by repeating the important message I gave in my statement earlier today.
"We will take every measure available to us and provide every additional resource we can to the police and the security services as they work to protect the public.
"And while we mourn the victims of last night's appalling attack, we stand defiant.
"The spirit of Manchester and the spirit of Britain is far mightier than the sick plots of depraved terrorists, that is why the terrorists will never win and we will prevail."
The PM added: "The spirit of Manchester and the spirit of Britain is far mightier than the sick plots of depraved terrorists.
"That is why the terrorists will never win and we will prevail."
Geneva tribute
Birmingham man 'had an axe'
In a statement, West Midlands Police confirmed a man - who was known to officers and is believed to have a history of mental health problems - was arrested on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon.
The 39-year-old Birmingham man was spotted by officers acting suspiciously and was spoken to.
Superintendent Andy Parsons said: "At this point they have arrested him.
"The man was carrying a bag, and as a precaution, Victoria Square where the vigil was being held was cleared for around 15 minutes.
"A small axe was recovered along with a large stick.
"We will be interviewing the man to understand his intentions after mental health experts have assessed his condition.
"I'd like to thank people for the calm and collected way in which they responded to the incident."
Tony Walsh's poem
Tony Walsh, the author of a poem which stirred the emotions of mourners at the vigil in Manchester, has said it was a "privilege" to read it.
Poet Tony Walsh, 51, delivered a version of his poem This Is The Place, an ode to the city of Manchester and its people, to a packed Albert Square.
He told the Press Association:
As a proud Mancunian, I was worried that I'd find that emotional, particularly when I mentioned my mum, who passed away a while ago.
It meant a lot to me. I wanted to do it for Manchester. I didn't want to crack, because Manchester won't crack.
I felt quite calm actually, when it came to do it.
It was a privilege.
The poet, originally from Tameside, said the poem was previously commissioned by a charity called Forever Manchester.
There was flashes of humour in there because that's Manchester all the time, and it's Manchester even in its darkest hours.
And it's important to me that the poem is true to Manchester and its people, and we fight through these things with humour, as hard as it is sometimes. That's the Mancunian way.
Mr Walsh, who now lives in Prestwich, said he is often commissioned to write about the city.
He has also previously written a poem to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Manchester Arena two years ago.
The full poem reads:
This is the place
In the north-west of England. It’s ace, it’s the best
And the songs that we sing from the stands, from our bands
Set the whole planet shaking.
Our inventions are legends. There’s nowt we can’t make, and so we make brilliant music
We make brilliant bands
We make goals that make souls leap from seats in the stands
And we make things from steel
And we make things from cotton
And we make people laugh, take the mick sommat rotten
And we make you at home
And we make you feel welcome and we make summat happen
And we can’t seem to help it
And if you’re looking from history, then yeah we’ve a wealth
But the Manchester way is to make it yourself.
And make us a record, a new number one
And make us a brew while you’re up, love, go on
And make us feel proud that you’re winning the league
And make us sing louder and make us believe that this is the place that has helped shape the world
And this is the place where a Manchester girl named Emmeline Pankhurst from the streets of Moss Side led a suffragette city with sisterhood pride
And this is the place with appliance of science, we’re on it, atomic, we struck with defiance, and in the face of a challenge, we always stand tall, Mancunians, in union, delievered it all
Such as housing and libraries and health, education and unions and co-ops and first railway stations
So we’re sorry, bear with us, we invented commuters. But we hope you forgive us, we invented computers.
And this is the place Henry Rice strolled with rolls, and we’ve rocked and we’ve rolled with our own northern soul
And so this is the place to do business then dance, where go-getters and goal-setters know they’ve a chance
And this is the place where we first played as kids. And me mum, lived and died here, she loved it, she did.
And this is the place where our folks came to work, where they struggled in puddles, they hurt in the dirt and they built us a city, they built us these towns and they coughed on the cobbles to the deafening sound to the steaming machines and the screaming of slaves, they were scheming for greatness, they dreamed to their graves.
And they left us a spirit. They left us a vibe. The Mancunian way to survive and to thrive and to work and to build, to connect, and create and greater ― Manchester’s greatness is keeping it great.
And so this is the place now with kids of our own. Some are born here, some drawn here, but all call it home.
And they’ve covered the cobbles, but they’ll never defeat, all the dreamers and schemers who still teem through these streets.
Because this is a place that has been through some hard times: oppressions, recessions, depressions, and dark times.
But we keep fighting back with greater Manchester spirit. Northern grit, northern wit, and greater Manchester’s lyrics.
And these hard times again, in these streets of our city, but we won’t take defeat and we don’t want your pity.
Because this is a place where we stand strong together, with a smile on our face, greater Manchester forever.
And we’ve got this place where a team with a dream can get funding and something to help with a scheme.
Because this is a place that understands your grand plans. We don’t do “no can do” we just stress “yes we can”
Forever Manchester’s a charity for people round here, you can fundraise, donate, you can be a volunteer. You can live local, give local, we can honestly say, we do charity different, that Mancunian way.
And we fund local kids, and we fund local teams. We support local dreamers to work for their dreams. We support local groups and the great work they do. So can you help us. help local people like you?
Because this is the place in our hearts, in our homes, because this is the place that’s a part of our bones.
Because greater Manchester gives us such strength from the fact that this is the place, we should give something back.
Always remember, never forget, forever Manchester.
World monuments illuminated with the Union flag
Monuments around the world have been lit up in the Union flag in tribute to the Manchester terror attack victims.
Dubai: Burj Khalifa
Dubai stands in solidarity with the UK tonight. Brilliant from the Burj Khalifa. What a powerful message. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/YZB0lweyAl
— الكباش دبي DubaiRams (@DCFCdubai) May 23, 2017
Berlin: Brandenburg gate
The brandenburg gate now pic.twitter.com/UQfflx8mqq
— Nikiii �� (@Nikiiide) May 23, 2017
"Horrific news from Manchester! Our thoughts are with our British friends. United we stand," German foreign minister Sigmar Gabriel said in a tweet.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel expressed her "sorrow and horror" over the bomb attack in Manchester, vowing that Germany will stand by Britain in the fight against terror.
"This suspected terrorist attack will only strengthen our resolve to work with our British friends against those who plan and execute such inhuman acts. I assure the people in Britain: Germany stands by your side," she said in a statement.
It is the second time this year the landmark has been illuminated with blue, red and white, after it was similarly illuminated in solidarity with London following the Westminster terrorist attack.
Paris - Eiffel Tower
Paris is to turn out the lights on the Eiffel Tower from midnight in memory of the victims, announces mayor Anne Hidalgo.
"By targeting Manchester the terrorists wanted to strike our common values: our unbending attachment to democracy, freedom, humanism and living together. Faced with this blind and persistent threat, cities must have a united front."
Georgina Callander's mother attends vigil
The mother of the first named victim of the Manchester terror attack has attended a local vigil to lay a single flower in her memory, Joe Shute reports.
Leslie Callander, whose 18-year-old daughter Georgina was among the 22 victims of the bomb blast at Monday night's Ariana Grande concert, attended the vigil in Mark Square at Tarleton in Lancashire close to the village of Hesketh Bank where she lives.
Wearing sunglasses and clutching a grey blanket, Leslie Callander was invited by Bishop John Goddard to lay the first flower of the service - a yellow carnation - in the square.
As she stepped forward she was visibly trembling with grief and was applauded for her bravery by the crowd of around 1,000 heartbroken residents who had gathered to pay tribute to Georgina and eight-year-old Saffie Rose Roussos, also killed in Monday evening's attack and who attended school in the village.
She spent the rest of the service with her head buried in the chest of a relative before being led away by a police family liaison officer.
Bishop John Goddard, who led the vigil wearing his purple robes and carrying a crook, told the crowd: “What should have been a happy occasion for mothers and their daughters turned into a killing field.”
After a two-minute silence followed by the release of pink balloons into the sky and an Ariana Grande song called Put Your Hearts Up, neighbours and friends of both girls stepped forward to lay their own flowers.
Cameron Perritt, 17, who attended Bishop Rawstorne School and Runshaw College with Georgina, described her as "one of the nicest people I've ever met".
He added: "I cannot believe something so horrific could happen to such a lovely person."
Vigils were also held in London, Glasgow, Birmingham, Belfast, Coventry, Liverpool, Sheffield, Newcastle, Bolton, Swindon, Leeds.
Bomb victim fund hits £500k
The fund for the victims of the Manchester suicide bomb attack has seen more than £500,000 pledged in support for those affected.
In the wake of the deadly blast local news organisation the Manchester Evening News set up a crowdfunding initiative following requests from readers on how they could help.
Just 10 hours after its launch, more than £550,000 had been donated by thousands of people to the families and victims of the atrocity, which saw 22 killed and many more injured.
Manchester Evening News editor-in-chief Rob Irvine said:
Our wonderful city of Manchester has been terribly wounded.
But it is a huge solace to see the response of individuals and organisations who have responded to cowardice and evil with kindness and generosity.
More than 21,000 people have supported our fund-raising appeal to the tune of close on £550,000, and the figure of donations is growing all the time.
We are arranging with a charity to ensure this financial support, some of it from large corporations, reaches the families of those affected by this appalling tragedy.
Birmingham square evacuated
More on the incident at the Birmingham vigil.
The man apparently shouted out as he was handcuffed and led away by officers with West Midlands Police, just a short distance from where 1,000 people had gathered in the city's main Victoria Square.
As he was taken away in a riot van in Edmund Street, which runs behind Birmingham's council house, a police sergeant could be seen carrying away what appeared to be a bat and a hatchet.
Speakers who had been paying tribute to the Manchester victims were interrupted by the man's loud protests, from down a side street.
Police, including armed response officers, then cleared the square a short time later.
The force's chief constable David Thompson - who had been attending the vigil in an official capacity - witnessed some of the incident.
He confirmed the evacuation of the square, in front of the council house, had been a precaution.
More details emerge about Abedi
Salman Abedi, the suspected suicide bomber, was a student at Salford University.
He studied on a business and management course at Salford University two or three years ago, a source said, but dropped out of the course and did not complete his degree.
Dr Sam Grogan, the university's Pro-Vice Chancellor Student Experience, said: "All at the University of Salford are shocked and saddened by the events of last night. Our thoughts are with all those involved, their families and their friends.
Buildings being evacuated on Peel Park campus; New Adelphi, Lady Hale and Clifford Whitworth library. Please follow instructions from staff.
— Salford University (@SalfordUni) May 23, 2017
"We have provided, and continue to provide, support to all students and staff who have been affected."
He also said that in an "unrelated incident" there was an evacuation of three buildings at the university "as a precautionary measure for a short period of time earlier this evening".
'Knifeman' interrupts Birmingham vigil
A vigil in Birmingham for the Manchester Arena victims has been interrupted after a man apparently armed with a large knife and a baseball bat was detained nearby.
A silent vigil was also held in Belfast to remember the Manchester bombing victims.
Perimeter put in place around #Birmingham#VictoriaSquare after some kind of incident - shouting was heard during #Vigil@bbcwmpic.twitter.com/euMgqurIp8
— Kathryn Stanczyszyn (@stanchers) May 23, 2017
A small group held posters professing "we stand together" outside the gates of City Hall.
Political and church leaders in Northern Ireland also expressed sympathy.
Amnesty International director in the region Patrick Corrigan said: "Tonight's vigil outside City Hall is really a spontaneous response by members of the local community and really it is an opportunity to stand in solidarity with the citizens of Manchester from the citizens of Belfast.
"To say we share your pain, and it is a response that is about a sense of community, a sense of humanity and the simple message tonight is, we stand together."
Cantona: 'I suffer with you'
In a video posted online, former Manchester United star Eric Cantona said: "I think deeply to the victims, to the wounded persons, kids, teenagers, adults, to their families, to their friends, to all of you, all of us.
"I think to this city, Manchester, and Mancunians that I love deeply. I think to this country, England, and the English that I love deeply.
"I suffer with you. My heart is with you. I always feel close to you."
A message from Eric Cantona to the people of Manchester: "I suffer with you. My heart is with you."pic.twitter.com/2nDNiaMmR6
— The Peoples Person (@PeoplesPerson_) May 23, 2017
Meanwhile, the Mayor of Manchester, Andy Burnham, has also tweeted from the Albert Square gathering:
Thank you Manchester. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. pic.twitter.com/d88atzvDwb
— Mayor Andy Burnham (@MayorofGM) May 23, 2017
'I wanted to come to show I'm not scared'
More from The Telegraph's Eleanor Steafel who has been speaking to people at the vigil:
Fourteen-year-old Sarah Gallagher came to the vigil with her mother Maureen. Several of her friends were at the Arena on Monday night, and though thankfully none were hurt, it has rocked her community to the core.
"I wanted to come to show I'm not scared," she told the Telegraph.
"It feels like an attack on all our young people," her mother added. "Every young person in Manchester was attacked on Monday night, not just the ones in the arena.
"Their voices need to rise up now to make sure this never happens again.
"They will all remember this."
Missing girl, 15, is found - but friend still missing
One of the two Scottish girls missing after the attack is understood to have been found in hospital, Auslan Cramb reports.
A source on the Isle of Barra said Laura MacIntyre, 15, had been located in a hospital in Manchester and was being treated for very serious burns.
Her school friend Eilidh MacLeod, 14, is still missing.
The pair travelled to the concert from Barra in the Western Isles with Eilidh's mother Marion.
Freddie Flintoff among the crowd
Former England cricketer Andrew "Freddie" Flintoff was also spotted paying his respects at the vigil:
Manchester falls silent
A minute of silence has just been held in Albert Square for the 22 people who died last night.
It was preceded by a poem read out by Tony Walsh, aka Longfella, and Samuel Barber's Adagio for Strings.
The crowds erupted into applause as the vigil began.
Poet Tony Walsh said: "We stand here in a truly great city, in a truly great city region.
"It falls to me to try and sum up what makes this city, its people, its communities so great."
He read his poem This Is The Place before adding: "Forever Manchester. Choose love Manchester".
Senior figures including Home Secretary Amber Rudd, Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and Speaker John Bercow joined Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham on stage.
Lord Mayor of Manchester Eddy Newman said the vigil was a chance to "express solidarity" with the victims.
He thanked the emergency services, prompting a rapturous response from the thousands of people gathered there.
Addressing the crowd, Greater Manchester Police's Ian Hopkins said: "As your Chief Constable of Greater Manchester and as a father I cannot begin to imagine how anyone can carry out such an unthinkable act - murdering 22 people and injuring 59 - and my thoughts and those of my colleague are very much with their families at this incredibly difficult time."
Mr Hopkins added: "Last night, in the most atrocious circumstances, the people of Greater Manchester showed the world how much we care.
"How much we care about each other and how much we were prepared to help those in need.
"And I've heard some tremendous stories of doctors coming in to support and police officers, ambulance workers giving up their days off turning up to help those in need."
Mr Hopkins thanked those who had worked "tirelessly" through the night, "members of the public for their solidarity" and "the rest of the world for holding us in their thoughts".
"We must all stand together and not let the terrorists defeat us, not let them stop us going about our daily business and create fear and we must all live in harmony with each other as we stand together and defeat terrorism," he said.
Hundreds of people, including young children, also gathered at a simultaneous vigil for the victims of the Manchester attack in Glasgow.
A two-minute silence was held before a wreath was laid by Lord Provost Eva Bolander.
Others who had gathered placed candles, flowers and a teddy in the square.
The council said the people of Manchester were among Glasgow's "closest friends" and the union flag flew at half-mast above the City Chambers.
Moment police raided Manchester home believed to be linked to bomber
Footage has emerged of the moment armed police stormed a South Manchester house linked to the Manchester Arena suicide bomber.
The footage, filmed by a neighbour, shows armed police surrounding a door before blasting it open under controlled explosion and entering the house.
Neighbours said unmarked cars appeared at the scene on Elmore Road in South Manchester at lunchtime on Tuesday and up to 30 officers locked down the area.
Greater Manchester Police said on Tuesday that a 23-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the bombing, however it is unclear whether the arrest was made at the same property.
'Our hearts go out': Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton tweet
Former US president Barack Obama said:
Our hearts go out to those killed and wounded in Manchester. Americans will always stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of the UK.
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) May 23, 2017
Former US presidential candidate Hillary Clinton tweeted:
Outraged & angry about this cowardly terror attack on a crowd of young people. Sending sympathy & strength to victims & people of Manchester
— Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) May 23, 2017
Meanwhile, the United Nations Security Council "condemned in the strongest terms the barbaric and cowardly terrorist attack" and vowed to "cooperate actively with the government of United Kingdom and all other relevant authorities" to tackle terrorism.
Thousands flood into Albert Square
Thousands of people have gathered in the centre of Manchester in a show of defiance, declaring they will not be "beaten" or "intimidated" in the wake of the terror attack.
Crowds spilled from Albert Square on to nearby roads, standing together in an act of solidarity.
Huge crowd in Albert Square tonight for the vigil #Manchesterpic.twitter.com/ATXwtOFmhD
— Rich Durber (@richdurber) May 23, 2017
Lu Bowen, 40, brought flowers to lay as a mark of respect, and said it has been a "horrific" day.
Standing alongside her teenage daughter Lucy, she said: "We watched it all unfold last night.
"We felt we wanted to show a sense of solidarity and commitment that Manchester always has.
Huge crowds gathering at #AlbertSquare to stand together, and our city looks especially beautiful tonight ❤️ pic.twitter.com/UYQf5b40r1
— Rebecca Ryder (@JukeboxBeck) May 23, 2017
"When the chips are down, Manchester always pulls together."
She said some of her friends felt nervous about the prospect of coming into the city on Tuesday night, adding: "I personally just want to make a stand that even if my friends felt a bit nervous, I felt it was very important to prove that I won't be beaten, intimidated.
Somber mood. Solidarity in Albert square pic.twitter.com/dweLboWe2l
— Cathy (@cazpro) May 23, 2017
"And also, people have lost loved ones. If it was me, I'd want to see this."
Lucy said she had friends at the concert who were "shaken up", adding: "A few of them didn't come into school."
Her mother said: "It's been a horrific day. But we all feel the same here. We're here together.
Manchester Victoria closed for several days
A train station near the scene of the Manchester bomb attack is expected to be closed for several days.
Manchester Victoria, which is attached to Manchester Arena where the blast happened, was shut to allow a forensic search of the area to take place.
Rail operator Northern's regional director Liam Sumpter said:
Manchester Victoria station will remain closed on Wednesday and it could be several days before it reopens.
We are working to provide as many services as possible while the station remains closed, but customers need to be aware that there may be some short notice cancellations and delays.
Our thoughts are with the families and friends of the people who have lost their lives and those who were injured on Monday evening.
Manchester Victoria is usually used by an average of 21,000 passengers each day and offers connections to destinations such as Liverpool, Newcastle and Leeds.
Trains are not running to, from or through the station, with services diverted or cancelled.
Metrolink trams are also not operating through the station.
Vigil about to start
People are gathering for the vigil, announced earlier by Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, which is due to start in the city's Albert Square in about 10 minutes.
Homeless man rushed to help children
Stephen Jones was sleeping near the venue when he heard a huge bang, which he initially thought was a firework.
"I then realised what was happening and saw children coming out, screaming and covered in blood," the 35-year-old told ITV News.
In graphic detail, he recalled wiping blood from children's eyes before noticing their horrific injuries:
Theresa May hails 'inspirational bravery
Theresa May hailed the "inspirational bravery" of the emergency services and the "unbreakable spirit" of Mancunians as she signed the book of condolence for those killed in the terror attack.
The Prime Minister said that people would remember those who died and "celebrate those who helped", insisting that "terrorism never wins".
Mrs May visited Manchester Town Hall to read tributes following the atrocity which killed 22 people at an Ariana Grande concert in the city.
Her note said: "Here in this great city a callous and cowardly act was met by the inspirational bravery of our emergency services and the unbreakable spirit of the people of Manchester.
"As we remember those who died, their loved ones and those who were injured, we will celebrate those who helped, safe in the knowledge that terrorism never wins and our values, our country and our way of life will prevail."
Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn also signed the book of condolence during his visit to Manchester.
What we now so far
Here is what we know so far about the terrorist attack at Manchester Arena that targeted young concert-goers.
22 people, including many children, have been killed and 59 injured in the blast.
The attack was carried out by a lone male suicide bomber who detonated an improvised explosive device. He died at the arena.
He has been identified as 22-year-old Salman Abedi.
Security services are investigating whether he acted alone or was part of a network.
A 23-year-old has been arrested in South Manchester in connection with the incident.
Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the attack.
The first victim has been named as college student Georgina Callander. Eight-year-old schoolgirl Saffie Roussos was also killed.
Speaking after chairing a Cobra meeting on Tuesday morning, Prime Minister Theresa May said the "callous" attack was "among the worst terrorism we have experienced in the United Kingdom".
A vigil will be held at 6pm on Tuesday in Albert Square, Manchester.
The explosion took place at Manchester Arena as people began streaming from the doors after a show by American singer Ariana Grande.
Greater Manchester Police said they were called to the venue at around 10.33pm and approach roads were closed.
Manchester Victoria station was evacuated and trains cancelled until at least the end of Tuesday.
The injured - including 12 under the age of 16 - were being treated at eight hospitals across Greater Manchester, Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said.
President Donald Trump expressed his "deepest condolences" to the victims and branded the attackers "evil losers".
Extra police officers have been put on duty in London in the wake of the attack, Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick announced.
Andy Burnham, the Greater Manchester metro mayor, called the atrocity "an evil act".
All national General Election campaigning was suspended after the explosion.
A controlled explosion was carried out on Tuesday afternoon, as part of the investigation, at an address in Fallowfield.
Police: Suspect was Salman Abedi
Speaking outside force headquarters, Greater Manchester Police Chief Constable Ian Hopkins has confirmed the name of 22-year-old Salman Abedi as the suspected suicide bomber.
Here is the statement in full:
Can I start by once again passing on our heartfelt sympathies to all the innocent people caught up in last night's despicable act.
We now have a team of specially-trained Family Liaison Officers who are supporting families.
There has been much speculation and names of those who may have been killed in the media and social media. We accept that this is inevitable however we ask that people allow the police and coroner to release the names once the families are ready and appropriately supported.
As you would expect the police response to this across Greater Manchester has been significant as we support people to go about their daily business.
Part of this response has seen us arrest a 23-year-old man in connection with the attack and we have also carried out two warrants, one in Whalley Range and one in Fallowfield that included a controlled explosion to enable safe entry.
We understand that feelings are very raw right now and people are bound to be looking for answers. However, now, more than ever, it is vital that our diverse communities in Greater Manchester stand together and do not tolerate hate.
We have been visited by the Prime Minster and Home Secretary and we have taken them through the emergency response so far and what we plan to do in future days.
I can confirm that the man suspected of carrying out last night's atrocity has been named as 22-year-old Salman Abedi. However, he has not yet been formally identified and I wouldn't wish, therefore, to comment further.
The priority remains to establish whether he was acting alone or as part of a network.
It must be noted that CBS reported the name four hours ago.
Everything we know about Salman Abedi
Born in Manchester in 1994 the second youngest of four children her parents were Libyan refugees who came to the UK to escape the Gaddafi regime.
His mother, Samia Tabbal, 50, and father, Ramadan Abedi, a security officer, were both born in Libya but appear to have emigrated to London before moving to the Fallowfield area of south Manchester where they have lived for at least ten years.
He grew up in the Whalley Range area, just yards from the local girl's high school, which hit the headlines in 2015 when twins and grade A pupils, Zahra and Salma Halane, who were both aspiring medical students, left their homes and moved to Isil controlled Syria.
They then had Hashem Abedi, now 20, and daughter Jomana, 18. Jomana, who has two Facebook profiles, attended Whalley Range High School before apparently working at Didsbury Mosque in 2013.
Here's more on the suspected bomber.
Salman Abedi's home raided, police reveal
It has emerged the controlled explosion reported earlier in the day happened at the home of bombing suspect Salman Abedi.
Elsmore Road, where Abedi was registered as living, became the centre of the investigation into Monday's outrage as detectives hunted those thought to be behind the blast.
Armed police ordered residents indoors as they carried out a controlled explosion.
The suspect was named by US security services in Washington, as those who live on the red-bricked semi-detached street said they know little about those who reside at the address.
It came as a 23-year-old man was also arrested by plain-clothed police officers on Wilbraham Road, Chorlton, over the deadly bombing.
US officials 'identify suspected bomber'
The Press Association has put out a report claiming that US officials have said British authorities identified the suspected Manchester bomber as Salman Abedi.
More to follow on this.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Theresa May has made a private visit to Manchester Children's Hospital, Downing Street said.
We are also expecting a new statement from Greater Manchester Police imminently.
Father pleads for safe return of his daughter, 15
The father of a teenager missing with her friend after the Manchester terror attack has revealed that it was his daughter’s first concert.
School friends Laura MacIntyre, 15, and Eilidh MacLeod, 14, travelled from the remote Hebridean island of Barra to the concert in Manchester.
Michael MacIntyre said it was a birthday present for Eilidh and the pair were “big fans” of Ariana Grande.
He added: “Laura was so happy to be going down there with her friend.
“It was Laura’s first concert. I was a bit hesitant about her going to a concert so far away but she seemed so happy. I’m waiting by the phone all day in case I hear any news.”
The Telegraph's Auslin Crambhas more in this report.
Queen and Prince Philip observe silence
The Queen held a minute's silence at Buckingham Palace today for victims of the Manchester bomb attack.
Members of the Royal family joined 8,000 guests at a palace garden party in standing silent in honour of the 22 dead and 59 injured at the Manchester Arena last night.
In a sunshine yellow Stewart Parvin wool coat and Rachel Trevor-Morgan hat, the 91-year-old monarch, with the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince of Wales, Duchess of Cornwall and Princess Eugenie, stood in quiet contemplation outside the palace Bow Room as the party guests looked on from the 40-acre garden.
The Duke of York, who was travelling back from China, was due to join the garden party guests later.
Duke of Cambridge sends his thoughts to Manchester
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.
A message from The Duke of Cambridge following last night's attack in Manchester. pic.twitter.com/g8EWtuC2A8
— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) May 23, 2017
"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."
The Queen has also offered her "deepest sympathy" to all those affected by the "dreadful" terrorist attack, saying the events had shocked the nation.
The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall expressed their "most heartfelt sympathy" for the families and friends of the victims, branding the incident "truly dreadful".
Theresa May pays tribute to emergency services
Speaking to the BBC after her meeting in Manchester, Mrs May gave her reaction to the first young victims of the attack being identified.
She said: "It is an absolutely barbaric attack that has taken place, to cut off young lives in this way, and it is absolutely devastating and our thoughts and prayers must be with their families and friends at this horrendous tragedy that has taken place.
"I'm very clear that the police and the security services have the resources to ensure that they continue their investigation.
"I would like to thank all of those involved, the police and other emergency services, for the amazing way that they responded to this terrible incident.
"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".
Isil responsibility claim 'not verified'
Islamic State's claim it is behind the Manchester bombing has not been verified in the United States, intelligence chiefs have said.
The terror organisation, known as IS and Isis, claims responsibility for "virtually every attack", US director of national intelligence Dan Coats said.
He told the senate armed services committee the atrocity was "tragic" and a reminder of the real threat faced by the West and its allies.
Mr Coats said:
Isis has claimed responsibility for the attack in Manchester, although they claim responsibility for virtually every attack.
We have not verified yet the connection. We spent a significant amount of time discussing threats to our respective homelands.
It's a tragic situation that we see all too much of in countries around the world, particularly our allies.
Once again, it reminds us that this threat is real, it is not going away and needs significant attention to do everything we can to protect our people from these kinds of attacks.
Queen to hold one minute silence
Tonight's garden party at Buckingham Palace will begin with a one minutes silence at 4pm, observed by the Queen, members of the Royal Family, and guests, The Telegraph's royal correspondent Hannah Furness reports.
Justin Welby: There is more than unites us than divides us
Speaking after interfaith prayers in Manchester Cathedral, Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury, posted on Twitter:
Faith communities in #Manchester saying there is more that unites us than divides us. #WeStandTogetherhttps://t.co/kPkLkehwB6
— Justin Welby ن (@JustinWelby) May 23, 2017
Busker sings songs of defiance after Manchester terror attack
Manchester's Piccadilly Gardens was packed with workers on their lunch break listening to a busker singing songs of defiance.
Hundreds of Mancunians sat in the sun-drenched central square eating lunch and listening to the musician, who sang songs such as All You Need Is Love by the Beatles.
The singer 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.
Manchester's Piccadilly Gardens packed with workers on lunch as a busker plays "All You Need Is Love" and "Everything's Gonna Be Alright" pic.twitter.com/GH1xp9d4IC
— Arj Singh (@singharj) May 23, 2017
Theresa May meets police chief in Manchester
Prime Minister Theresa May has been pictured with Ian Hopkins, Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police, this afternoon as she visits the city to show her support following last night's terror attack.
Speaking earlier after chairing a Cobra meeting, Mrs May said the "callous" attack was "among the worst terrorism we have experienced in the United Kingdom".
Prince Charles: Appalling atrocity... fills us with intense sadness
Prince Charles has released a statement in the wake of the Manchester terror attack on behalf of him and his wife, Camilla. 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."
Police appeal for dashcam footage taken in Manchester city centre
Police investigating the Manchester Arena attack are appealing to anyone who was in Manchester city centre between 8pm and 11pm and has dashcam footage to email it as a matter of urgency to https://ukpoliceimageappeal.co .uk/
Video: Mancunians 'stick together when it counts'
AJ Singh, a Manchester taxi driver who offered his services for free to those affected by city's suspected terror attack, says Mancunians "stick together when it counts". Click here for more.
Suspect named as Salman Abedi - reports
Unconfirmed reports from CBS News in America identified Salman Abedi as a suspect in the bombing.
Controlled explosion at address after bombing
Greater Manchester Police said a controlled explosion has taken place at an address in Fallowfield as part of the investigation into the Manchester bomb attack.
Rosemary Ward, 21, who lives nearby, said: "There was a big bang and the whole house shook. I just picked my child up - she was screaming.
"Everyone started running out of their houses. It was scary. There were lots of police here already - they had machine guns.
"We heard that 22 people had been arrested in a house down there. I live right around the corner. I'm just worried about my child.
"I was supposed to go into town but I'm not going to now. People are crying because they want to get their kids out of school."
Officers also executed a search warrant at a property in Whalley Range, the force added.
Donald Trump: Americans stand with people of UK after 'wanton and depraved' attack
President Donald Trump told Theresa May that "Americans stand with the people of the United Kingdom" in a phone call in which he offered US assistance for the investigation into the Manchester concert attack.
The call came shortly after Mr Trump denounced those responsible for the atrocity as "evil losers" and called for the ideology behind the outrage to be "completely obliterated".
The US president was one of a number of world leaders the Prime Minister spoke to by phone after chairing a meeting of the Government's Cobra emergency committee in Whitehall.
We stand in absolute solidarity with the people of the United Kingdom. pic.twitter.com/X6fUUxxYXE
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 23, 2017
The White House said Mr Trump and Mrs May agreed the targeting of teenage children enjoying a concert was "particularly wanton and depraved".
And a spokesman said: "The president reassured the Prime Minister that Americans stand with the people of the United Kingdom and that our resolve will never waver in the face of terrorism. He offered American aid in the United Kingdom's investigation and vowed to continue the mutual fight against terrorism."
Twelve children under 16 among the 59 casualties
Twelve children under the age of 16 were among the 59 casualties taken to hospital after the terror attack at Manchester Arena, David Ratcliffe, medical director of North West Ambulance Service has said.
Latest victim to be named is eight-year-old girl
An eight-year-old girl, Saffie Rose Roussos, has been confirmed as having been killed in after becoming separated from her mother and sister. Click here to read more.
Terror group threatens more attacks after Manchester bombing
Isil said in a statement published on its social media channels that "one of the caliphate's soldiers placed bombs among the crowds," and threatened more attacks.
Breaking: Islamic State claims responsibility for attack
Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (Isil) has claimed responsibility for the Manchester concert bombing.
