Manchester marks 9 years since the Manchester Arena attack

Today marks nine years since the Manchester Arena attack.

22 people were killed and hundreds injured when a bomb was detonated at the end of an Ariana Grande concert.

The attacker Salman Abedi died at the scene. His brother has since been sentenced to life in prison.

A public inquiry in 2021 concluded that more could have been done to stop the attack.

Tributes are taking place across Manchester today. Two separate one-minute silences will be observed at Victoria Station, one at noon and then again at 10:31pm - the time the bomb was detonated.

Flowers will be laid at the Glade of Light memorial by the new Lord Mayor of Manchester Cllr Shaukat Ali, Council Leader Bev Craig and Council Chief Executive Tom Stannard. 

The names of those who lost their lives will also be read out during Manchester Cathedral services at 9.30am (Morning Prayers), 1.10pm (Holy Communion) and 4.30pm (Choral Evensong). The cathedral will also be open throughout the day for those who wish to light a candle or pray.

Council Leader Cllr Bev Craig OBE said: “Manchester will never forget those who lost their lives in the 22 May 2017 terror attack, nor the many others who were injured or otherwise affected. Time passes but we will not allow their memories to fade.

“On the ninth anniversary of that terrible day, we also remember the remarkable solidarity shown by the city in refusing to give in to hatred - and the resilience and courage shown by the loved ones of those who were killed and by survivors.”

In a statement, Mike Cunningham, CBE, QPM, chair of the Security Industry Authority and Michelle Russell, chief executive of the Security Industry Authority said: "Today, our thoughts are with the people of Manchester. We remember the 22 people who lost their lives, the hundreds who were injured, and the families whose lives were permanently shattered by the devastating attack at the Manchester Arena on the 22 May 2017. Nine years on, you remain very much in our thoughts and at the forefront of our mission.  

"We remain committed to playing our part to strengthen public safety and continue to be humbled and honoured to be appointed as the Martyn’s Law regulator. We fully understand the deep significance of this new law and the responsibility it places upon us and others.   

"We stand united with our partners in government and the wider security community in keeping people and places safe and secure across the UK."

Manchester United posted a statement reading: "Nine years on from the tragic events of the Manchester Arena bombing, we remember the 22 innocent lives that were lost on that awful night.

"They will never be forgotten."

Manchester City said: "Today marks nine years since 22 innocent lives were tragically lost in the Manchester Arena attack.

The families of those who lost loved ones, and all whose lives were changed immeasurably that evening, are in our thoughts."

Both teams used the hastag #ACityUnited.