Duty to ensure terror fails lies with us all

Once again the UK finds itself the target of a terrifying, horrific, bewildering, inexplicable and deadly terrorist attack. The scenes from the Manchester Arena, where thousands of people – many of them children – had been enjoying a concert are almost impossible to comprehend.

Sadly, however, such sights are all too common these days, with terrorism now a regular occurrence in Europe.

Since 9/11, there have been numerous attacks both in the UK and on the continent.

Those responsible will go to almost any lengths to disrupt the way of life we hold so dear.

How to prevent the activities of those hellbent on such pointless destruction is far from clear.

The authorities have extensive watch lists, but it seems the terrorists have no shortage of fertile recruiting grounds.

Isis was quick to claim responsibility for the Manchester attack. Their “confession” was no surprise.

This nasty, twisted offence had all the hallmarks of their operations. As ever, the big question now is how we respond to the threat, which is surely growing all the time.

Experts have warned further attacks are highly likely, and quite possibly imminent.

Vigilance is clearly vital, but offers no cast iron guarantee of safety. So we have options. We could defer to the terrorists. We could change the way we go about our daily lives, avoiding busy areas and major events. But, of course, there is another option. Yes, we can – and indeed must – remain vigilant at all times.

But we can also choose to continue with our lives. We can continue to attend social gatherings with families and friends. We can stand up to the terrorists and refuse to give in to their cowardly methods. We must rely on the authorities to do their job. We must offer sympathy to the victims and do all we can to bring them comfort.

Above all, we must continue with our lives.