Street stars join tributes to bomb victim Martyn
Corrie actors and hundreds of Stopfordians at vigil for Manchester Arena bomb victim, 29
HUNDREDS of people – including several Coronation Street stars – gathered at an emotional yet joyous vigil to remember Manchester Arena bomb victim Martyn Hett.
The 29-year-old was one of the 22 people killed in the atrocity after the Ariane Grande concert last Monday night.
On Sunday, in his home town of Stockport, there were tears as well as laughter as his family and friends gathered at event to remember the extremely popular PR manager.
Heaton Moor park was packed with those who knew Martyn, as well as hundreds of others, who came to pay their respects and celebrate his life.
There were a number of extremely moving speeches from Martyn’s mum, dad, stepdad, siblings, and a number of his friends, as well as from the Mayor of Stockport.
There were also special appearances from stars of his favourite TV show, Coronation Street.
Martyn was a super-fan of the soap.
Arena terror bomb latest
AMEMORIAL to the victims of the Manchester bombing has been set up in the centre of Stockport.
Balloons, flowers, stuffed toys and notes have been placed on the plaza outside Merseyway shopping centre, known as the ‘Bear Pit,’ in memory of the 22 people killed in the terrorist attack at Manchester Arena.
One of the notes left reads: “To all the innocent victims. We are all grieving your absence, even them who didn’t know you. You’re forever going to be remembered and loved.”
Another says: “RIP to all the beautiful lives lost in this terrible attack. We will stand strong TOGETHER. This is Manchester, we do things differently here. Bees keep buzzing.”
An event dubbed ‘Stockport Stands With Manchester’ was also held on the plaza on Saturday in memory of the victims, which included a balloon release, cake sale and face painting and raised money for the families of those who died.
There was a vigil for Stockport victim Martyn Hett in Heaton Moor Park on Sunday and on Monday Roughley’s Bikers rode down the A6 to lay flowers on St Petersgate.
Councillor Alex Ganotis, leader of Stockport Council, released this statement yesterday: “It’s just over a week ago since our country was plunged into grief and despair following the horrific terrorist attack at the Manchester Arena.
“The events of that night sent shockwaves throughout the world and many in our region are still trying to come to terms with what happened.
“I joined many others on Sunday evening to pay tribute to Stockport resident Martyn Hett who tragically lost his life in last Monday’s attack. Like the hundreds of people who were there, I was overwhelmed by the outpouring of emotion that filled Heaton Moor Park that night.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank those organisations and volunteers who supported the vigil and enabled the community to come together and remember one of their own.
“I am also aware of the numerous tributes and events going on across the borough to remember those affected – each one giving people the opportunity to pay their respects to those who lost their lives or who were injured.”
The council has opened a book of condolence that can be signed at the town hall on online at stockport. gov.uk.