Valley united in solidarity

ROSSENDALE has expressed its grief and solidarity to the victims of the terror attack.

Stuart Sugarman, chief executive of Rossendale council, said everyone’s thoughts were with the victims of the “horrendous” events and their families.

He said: “We will, of course, as a council offer any support we can to anyone from our borough affected by these awful events as well offer our support to the people of Manchester.”

Rossendale council leader Alyson Barnes posted on Twitter: “Very shocking & saddening scenes. Thanks, as ever to the emergency services. Thinking about the families involved.”

Rossendale Police, Rossendale Mountain Rescue and Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service also tweeted their support to those affected.

Courtney Sumner, 25, of Newchurch Road, Rawtenstall, was among those to travel to a vigil on Tuesday in Manchester.

The former Alder Grange pupil’s mum Michelle said: “She was extremely upset by what had happened in Manchester on Monday night and wanted to let those affected know that she cared. She came home from work on Tuesday and together with her friend Nat Thornton from Burnley, made the sign and then took the bus into Manchester. I am very proud of her.”

On Wednesday, Water Primary School was raising spirits by handing out free bunches of flowers to parents.

Ink Pod in Bacup is joining the Manchester Tattoo Appeal to raise money for families and victims of the attack by offering £50 ‘Manchester bee’ tattoos. The studio will open from 9.30pm on Monday, May 29 for the session. All proceeds will go to the appeal. Advance bookings only.