World leaders send words of support

In the immediate aftermath of the Barcelona atrocity, world leaders came together in a show of solidarity with the city’s people.

Among them were Prime Minister Theresa May and French President Emmanuel Macron, whose own countries have been touched by terrorism.

Mrs May said she was “sickened” by the “senseless loss of life” in Barcelona.

“The Foreign Office is working to establish if any British nationals were involved in this appalling incident and we are in close contact with the authorities in Spain, who have our full support,” she said.

“Following the attacks in Manchester and London, Spain stood alongside the British people.

“Now Britain stands with Spain against the evil of terrorism.”

Those comments were echoed by London Mayor Sadiq Khan, who said the city stood with Barcelona “against the evil terrorism” following recent attacks in Westminster, London Bridge and Finsbury Park.

Mr Khan said: “My thoughts are with the victims of this barbaric terrorist attack in the great city of Barcelona and with their brave emergency services.

“London stands with Barcelona against the evil of terrorism.”

Mr Macron said: “All my thoughts and solidarity from France for the victims of the tragic attack in Barcelona. We will remain united and determined.”

Barcelona FC said it was “deeply saddened”, while rivals Real Madrid expressed “solidarity with the victims and their families and friends”.

Spanish tennis champion Rafael Nadal said he had been left “shattered” by the attack.