An amazing young man
A MAN from Bury has been named among the victims of Monday’s terrorist attack at the Manchester Arena.
Tributes to 28-year-old John Atkinson have been pouring in on social media.
It is understood Mr Atkinson, from Radcliffe, had been leaving the Ariana Grande concert at the venue when it was targeted by the suicide bomber.
Friends and family have paid their respects online, describing him as an “amazing young man”.
Lee Paul posted on Facebook: “Sleep tight John Atkinson. Thoughts and prayers with all your family and the other 21 people who lost there lives last night.”
Tracey Crolla wrote: “Thinking of all the Atkinsons at this very sad time John Atkinson you turned into an amazing young man so kind and thoughtful you will be missed by everyone x x.”
Nana Julie Mills said: “Just heard one of my good friends whom I’ve known since he was a little boy passed away last night. Condolences to his family and friends. RIP John Atkinson.”
Taliè Andrèa branded John “a beautiful soul”.
She added: “Heartbroken for the Atkinson family at this sad time never would I imagine this happening so close to home. Rest in paradise John you beautiful soul.”
Tracey Sagar posted: “RIP John Atkinson. Thoughts and prayers to your family. What a mad, sad world.”
Stephen Smith added: “Condolences to the Atkinson Family. RIP John Atkinson.”
Nicola Jade Greenhalgh wrote on Facebook: “Just heard the news and I got goosebumps all over my body RIP John such a sick world we live in my thoughts are with all the Atkinson family today can’t even think straight today.”
John Price: “RIP John Atkinson thoughts are with family and friends.”
Chris Wooff: “Your gonna be missed John Atkinson such a sad day never expected anything like this would happen so close to home. I’m here for all of you anytime. RIP xxx.”
Jamie Walker, Councillor for Radcliffe North and Deputy Cabinet Member for Communities and Safer Neighbourhoods said: “John was a local lad, Radcliffe through and through. I’m sure all of Radcliffe will be joined in grief today as the town mourns the loss of a great local personality.”
“Radcliffe has come together today in support of the family and tributes have poured in.
“I have spoken with John’s family today and offered all of our councillors condolences and support on such a sad day.
“I am currently arranging through the local churches to have a special service in Radcliffe this Sunday in memory of John and all of the victims who lost their lives and were injured in last night’s atrocity. The church will also open a book.
“The Rev Carol Hayden has kindly offered to open St Mary’s Parish Church at Close Park from 2pm - 5pm for a time of reflection. It will open to people of all faiths to come along, reflect and mark their respects to those that were injured and lost their lives on Monday. There will also be a book of condolence and opportunity to light a candle or hang a prayer on the prayer tree.”