Manchester terrorist attack: Wigan reacts

Dawn over Manchester after the attack. Peter Byrne/PA Wire

Residents took to social media after 22 people died and dozens were injured in the explosion at the end of an Ariana Grande concert.

Latics chairman David Sharpe‏ posted a picture of the city’s skyline and tweeted: “Our beautiful home city. Stay strong. Thoughts are with all #Manchester. ❤️

The club account @LaticsOfficial tweeted: “Our thoughts this morning are with all those affected by last night’s tragic events in Manchester.”

Wigan Warriors centre Oliver Gildart tweeted: “Glad my mum and sister are safe. Shocking what’s happening in this world”.

The club’s official account posted: “We are shocked and saddened by the terrible events in Manchester last night and our thoughts are with all those affected.”

Pop star and actress Kym Marsh wrote: “I cannot believe what is happening. Praying for the people who lost their lives tonight in Manchester. Thoughts are with their families. x”

Fellow Coronation Street actor Georgia Taylor said: “My heart is broken this morning. I love you Manchester and last night you proved you have the biggest kindest heart. Xxx”

Indie-pop band The Lottery Winners from Leigh simply wrote: “HATE WILL NOT TEAR US APART.”

Wigan band Boomin tweeted: “Manchester will not be beaten. Always been our city home. Thinking of those who was injured and lost there lives. #unite #ManchesterArena”

Community groups in the borough also gave their reactions to the horrendous attack.

Wigan and Leigh Young Carers said: “Our thoughts & prayers go out to the victims & families of last night’s terrorist attack in #Manchester - in unity, we stand beside you .”