A survivor from Nottinghamshire has told how a suicide bomber killed 22 people, including children, as a blast targeted fans leaving a Manchester pop concert.
Around 59 people were also injured when the attacker detonated a device at Manchester Arena shortly after a performance on Monday night by US singer Ariana Grande.
Among the crowd were people who had travelled from Notts, including pregnant Heidi Barkley, 18, who told BBC Radio Nottingham she was leaving the gig with her 16-year-old sister when the bomb went off at around 10.33pm.
“As we were leaving through the fire exit we heard the bang and just thought it was one of the balloons they had let off,” she said.
“It was really loud, it shook the whole building. I don’t know how long we were running for but when we got far away we found directions back to the hotel.
“We went back to the hotel and were just going to stay there and get a train back this afternoon but we were so scared and we called our mum.”
Ambulance crews make their way to Manchester Arena after major incident. Several injuries being treated and police cordon in place. pic.twitter.com/jnNETqfJcM
— Darryl Morris (@darrylmorris) May 22, 2017
More than 400 police officers were deployed after the attack on Monday night, with a visible presence remaining on the streets of Manchester on Tuesday.
The injured are being treated at hospitals across Greater Manchester, and a hotline has been set up for those with concerns over loved ones who remain unaccounted for.
Greater Manchester Police chief constable Ian Hopkins said: “What I can confirm is that there are children among the deceased.
“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.
“Families and many young people were out to enjoy a concert at the Manchester Arena and have lost their lives.”
MPs have suspended campaigning ahead of the June 8 General Election as a mark of respect.
Anyone concerned they have not been able to trace loved ones can call the emergency contact numbers 0161 856 9400 or 0161 856 9900.
Councillor Jon Collins, leader of Nottingham City Council, is among civic leaders who sent messages of support and condolence.
“Our thoughts this morning are with the victims and families of this terrible attack at the Manchester Arena, and we pay tribute to the emergency services who worked through the night to support them,” he said.
“Clearly this was an event that would have been attended by many families and children. Anyone in Nottingham who thinks that somebody they know may have been affected by the incident can call the emergency number on 0161 856 9400.
“Flags will be flying at half-mast across our Council buildings this morning.”
Absolutely devastated for those effected in Manchester. Such a wonderful city. Sending all my love and thoughts. Xxx
— Vicky McClure (@Vicky_McClure) May 23, 2017
Wollaton actor Vicky McClure was also among those who paid tribute.
“Absolutely devastated for those effected in Manchester,” she tweeted.
Councillor Kay Cutts, Leader of Nottinghamshire County Council, also issued a statement of support as flags at County Hall in West Bridgford were lowered to half mast.
“I am deeply saddened to hear of last night’s attack in Manchester. My thoughts are with the families involved and their loved ones.
“People were enjoying an evening out and their lives have been irrevocably affected by the tragic events which unfolded. It is particularly appalling that this appears to have been an act deliberately targeted at children, young people and families.
“I am sure I speak for everyone living in Nottinghamshire that we stand shoulder to shoulder with our friends in Manchester. We will not let mindless acts of violence deter law abiding people from living their lives.
“I will be contacting Sir Richard Leese, the Leader of Manchester City Council to pledge our support and offer any assistance we can.”
