Plans to commemorate first anniversary of Manchester Arena terror attack revealed
- Proposals to commemorate one year since the attack
Manchester City Council has announced plans to commemorate the terror attack, which claimed the lives of 22 people, at Manchester Arena following an Ariana Grande concert last year.
The tragedy shocked the world on May 22nd 2017 and saw the city of Manchester come together in a display of solidarity and love in the face of adversity.
The outlined plans will be based around two themes: Remembrance, Reflection and Celebration of Life and Manchester Together.
The themes will recognise each of the 22 people who lost their lives in the attack, those who were injured and first responders and the solidarity shown by the city respectively.
Embed from Getty ImagesThe weekend before the anniversary a ‘Trees of Hope Trail’ through the city centre will enable people to leave personal messages of hope and support on trees placed at key locations around the city centre, including St Ann’s Square.
During the Great Manchester Run on Sunday 20th May there will be a one-minute silence.
There will be further commemorative elements during the Games including fundraising for the We Love Manchester Emergency Fund.
On Tuesday 22nd May there will be a Civic Memorial Service at Manchester Cathedral during the afternoon, with bereaved families and first responders among those invited to attend to reflect and remember.
Albert Square, the scene of an emotional vigil last year, will play host to ‘Manchester Together’, a free public event in the early evening, giving the city’s people the opportunity to come together in solidarity and show the world that they are united.
Sir Richard Leese, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “The horrific events of 22 May shocked not just this city but the world. Those who lost loved ones, and those who were left physically or mentally injured, will always have a place in our thoughts and we will never forget the 22 people, including children, whose lives were taken away.
“The aftermath of the attack also saw a remarkable display of solidarity and love in and for Manchester, a refusal to let those who would divide us to get their twisted way. Even as we grieved, we were proud to stand resiliently together.
“The first anniversary of the attack will be an intensely emotional time for a great many people. Everyone touched by those events has a unique personal experience and we have tried to be mindful of this in planning a range of events.”
Updates on a permanent memorial, or memorials, to commemorate the event are not expected until later in the year although consultations have taken place.
In all cases plans are still being developed and more details will be announced nearer to the time.
Image from Odder.