Suffolk shows solidarity with Manchester after Arena atrocity

Organisations from across Suffolk have shown support for the people of Manchester after Monday night’s atrocity at the Arena concert.

Flags were flying from half mast on buildings owned by Ipswich council and Suffolk County Council following the terrorist outrage.

The Bishop of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich, Rt Revd Martin Seeley, said: “This has been an appalling and evil act.

“My heartfelt prayers and sympathy are for the victims, the families who have lost loved ones, and those parents, partners and friends who are desperately waiting for news.

“The police report that 22 people, including children, have died after the blast tore through a pop concert at Manchester Arena in a suspected terror attack and the authorities are working to establish the full details.

“This is an attack on innocent people, seemingly targeting children, and we once again stand together, holding on to the good that unites us in the face of those who try to use violence and fear to divide us.

“Our Suffolk churches are open for those who want a peaceful place to reflect and pray and I am asking the people of Suffolk to hold the people of Manchester in their prayers.

“As always our emergency services have shown great bravery and heroism. I would like to pay tribute to their bravery and dedication, and to all who have selflessly helped the victims.

Ipswich mayor Sarah Barber expressed shock and sadness at the outrage in Manchester: “This appalling atrocity has shocked all of us.

“Our hearts go out to all those innocent people – adults and children – who were caught up in this incident, those who are grieving and those who are still searching for loved ones.

“We are also grateful to the emergency services and to the people of Manchester who are facing this dreadful situation with courage and determination.

“I shall be writing to the Mayor of Greater Manchester today to formally express Ipswich’s horror – and our support – for the city.”

Clergy and staff at St Edmundsbury Cathedral are praying for the city of Manchester following the atrocity at the Arena on Monday night.

Dean Very Rev Frances Ward said: “We are praying for those who are missing, that they may be found safe; those who are injured, that they may come through; for the families, schools, colleges and communities that are facing the horror of loss and pain.

“We pray that those who perpetrate terror may know that they will never succeed in dividing communities; that their evil actions will never win against the power of love and forgiveness.”