‘I came to show that we are not afraid’

THOUSANDS of people from every part of Manchester packed into Albert Square to remember the victims of Monday’s bombing – and send a message of defiance.

The square was as full as the eye could see as people turned out to show their solidarity with the families of the 22 people killed and more than 150 injured in the tragedy at the Manchester Arena.

Senior figures – including Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, Lib Dem leader Tim Farron and House of Commons Speaker John Bercow – joined Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham on the stage on the steps of the town hall.

There was a huge outbreak of applause as the dignitaries were joined by youngsters from different community and faith groups as the Lord Mayor of Manchester Eddy Newman said the thoughts of the whole city were with Lib Dem leader Tim Farron out those affected. There was more applause as a woman from the crowd shouted her thanks to the Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police Ian Hopkins and the rest of the emergency services for their response. Mr Hopkins said: “As your Chief Constable of Greater Manchester and as a father I cannot begin to imagine how anyone can carry 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.

“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.”

The leader of the city council Sir Richard Leese was moved to tears as the Bishop of Manchester the right reverend David Walker said ‘we are Manchester’ and that the victims ‘would be forever Manchester as well.’

Perhaps the most emotional part of the ceremony came when poet Tony Walsh, known as Longfella, delivered a heartfelt ode to the city called ‘This is the Place.’

Dignataries and members of the crowd wiped away tears, as he read the lines: “We make you feel welcome and we make summat happen. “And we can’t seem to help it. “And if you’re looking from