We are shocked and saddened by the appalling criminal attack in Manchester last night. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families of this attack.

Such barbaric acts of violence can never be attributed to any faith, nor should we let it divide our communities. We praise the response of the emergency services that have helped save lives yesterday.

We note that reprisal attacks on mosques have taken place. We urge all in the community to remain vigilant in this difficult time.