22 innocents were killed and hundreds were hurt when the bomb went off at 10.31pm on May 22, 2017
Manchester will pause today (May 22) to mark the eighth anniversary of the Arena terror attack which claimed the lives of 22 innocents and left hundreds of others seriously injured.
The names of those who died in the Islamic State-inspired terror attack are to be read out during three services at Manchester Cathedral, while two one minute silences are to be observed at Manchester Victoria railway station close to where the bomb went off at the adjacent Manchester Arena, now the AO Arena.
The first period of silence will take place at the station at 12 noon, an event that has seen some of the families affected by the attack gather to remember lost loves. Others find it too painful and will stay away from Manchester.
The final minute of silence will take place at 10.31pm, the exact time eight years ago that the suicide bomb was detonated in the foyer of the arena.
Figen Murray, who has become an amazing campaigner for legislation in her son’s name, Martyn’s Law, to tighten security at venues and require those venues and local authorities to have plans in place to prevent terror attacks, will stay at her home in Cheshire, and remember Martyn there. Like other Arena families – but not all – she can’t bring herself to come into Manchester when the anniversary comes around.
Last month the King gave Royal Assent for the Martyn’s Law Bill, the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 – a lasting legacy for Figen’s tireless six-year campaign.
She told the Manchester Evening News: “As the 8th anniversary is approaching it is hard to believe that so many years have now passed yet the pain is as present as it has been on day one.
“For the past six years and three months I have worked with the government to get Martyn’s Law off the ground. It is now an act before Parliament and it is good to know that people will be better protected when out and about. Martyn’s Law will strengthen the UK’s counter terrorism strategy and provide additional safety for people whilst they enjoy the freedom this country offers.”
At the permanent Glade of Light Memorial, near Manchester Cathedral, The Lord Mayor of Manchester Coun Carmine Grimshaw, council leader Coun Bev Craig and chief executive Tom Stannard will lay floral tributes on behalf of the city to those who lost their lives.
The names of those who lost their lives will also be read out during services at the cathedral at 9am (Morning Prayers), 1.10pm (Holy Communion) and 5.30pm (Choral Evensong.) The cathedral will be open throughout the day for those who wish to light a candle or pray.
Coun Bev Craig, leader of Manchester City Council, said: “The 22 May 2017 attack was one of the darkest days in Manchester’s history but its aftermath also showed the city’s remarkable solidarity and Mancunians’ refusal to give in to those who would seek to divide us.
“We will never forget those who were lost that day, their loved ones, those who were injured and everyone who was affected. We remember them throughout the year but each anniversary is especially poignant.”
