Poet to join music stars at Ariana’s fundraiser

THE poet who brilliantly captured the resilient spirit of Manchester will take part in Ariana Grande’s fund-raising concert on Sunday.

Tony Walsh will read his inspirational poem This Is The Place on stage at this weekend’s show, which will include a host of pop superstars, including Justin Bieber, Miley Cyrus and Katie Perry.

He read the work in the aftermath of the atrocity at a vigil in Albert Square.

Tony’s passion triggered a rapturous response from those at the ceremony and around the world.

The poet, who performs under the name Longfella, told the M.E.N. he was honoured to have been asked – and has been left staggered by the reception to his work.

He said: “I’ve been very impressed with the way Ariana Grande and her team have handled themselves since the devastating events.

“To come back so soon and to bring a world-class pop line-up with her as a gift to her fans strikes me as a very brave and special thing to do.

“For my part, I remain deeply upset by the unfurling news of these tragic events and very proud if my poem has helped so many of my fellow Mancunians at this difficult time. I’m also humbled by the reaction that the poem has received around the world and delighted if it can now go on to raise a great deal of money for the families.

“I’ll be very proud to bring my poem and the spirit of Manchester to such a global stage on Sunday.

“I’ll aim to channel the strength that Manchester has shown in recent days and I won’t let the city down.

“Here in Manchester we’ve always known what a special place this is. Now the rest of the world knows it too. This is THE Place. Choose love.”

The line-up for the show at Emirates Old Trafford cricket ground reads like a who’s who of showbiz, with some acts still expected to be confirmed.

US pop singer Ariana had just finished her show at the Arena on May 22 when the bomb went off killing 22 people as they left the concert or waited to collect relatives.

In a statement Ariana’s management said: “On behalf of everyone involved with the One Love Manchester Concert, we are thankful and excited that Tony Walsh has agreed to join Ariana at this important concert.

“We are proud Ariana has taken this stand to move forward.

“Tony’s show of support is appreciated and humbling.”