Brief Special Edition August

Special Edition August 2017

In memory of the victims of the Manchester Arena attack

THE horrific events of 22 May struck at the heart of our city. My thoughts continue to be with the families of the 22 people who lost their lives and all those who were injured. I am incredibly proud of the way GMP responded when put under such intense pressure. The response has demonstrated our professionalism, our courage and bravery. Everyone came together

and showed the strength of Team GMP. From those who came in during the middle of the night to deal with initial response to the incident, through to the support, and the events that continue to take place, everyone has played their part.

I have seen first hand the exceptional work from forensic teams, investigators, counter terrorism staff, family liaison officers, those involved in disaster victim identification, call handlers, radio operators, as well as the armed and unarmed officers patrolling the streets. Officers and staff have demonstrated compassion and, throughout all the difficult days, have been doing their very best for the victims’ families and those who were injured.

Policing came together from colleagues working alongside British Transport Police at the incident,

ON Monday 22 May, our city faced its darkest hour. We grieve with the families of those who lost loved ones, and our thoughts remain with those injured and everyone caught up in the attack.

Since the attack, I have heard extraordinary stories of the outstanding responses made on that night. Lives were saved. The grieving comforted. The injured treated. People lost and scared were given a bed for the night or a lift home.

On behalf of everyone in Greater Manchester, I would like to thank you all for showing the greatest compassion, care and spirit that could be offered.

Thanks to you we have shown the world that we stand tall in the face of adversity.

We are a city united.

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester

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through to mutual aid from across the country and the many hours that our Special Constabulary volunteered. The Specials were quick to provide a visible and reassuring presence in the days following the attack. They have volunteered many hours to assist with events and supporting our normal policing efforts.

It has been heart-warming to witness the response to the police and emergency services since 22 May. People have recognised the bravery of those who went to help in the moments after the attack, the many hours that have been worked and the care and compassion that has been shown to all those who have been affected. I am proud of everything that we have done for Greater Manchester.

Ian Hopkins, Chief Constable

THE terrorist attack on the Manchester arena was an outrageous act of violence targeted at innocent children and families. It was an attack on our people and our very way of life. What we saw, in-between the panic and terror, were members of the emergency services doing what they do best: saving lives and protecting people, putting others first, and rushing into danger not knowing if more violence was to come.

The attack has highlighted serious issues with regard to police resources, not only when responding to extreme circumstances but also the day-to-day policing needed to build trust with communities, and the intelligence gathering that is so vital to preventing attacks like this in the future.

Thank you for all you have done and for keeping us safe.

Bev Hughes, Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime Special Edition June 2017

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Family Tributes

4 Tribute to Georgina Callander and

10 Albert Square Vigil

16 World reacts

Nell Jones

17 Royal visit & leader responses

5 Elaine McIver, Sorrell Leczkowski,

18 Media focus

Lisa Lees and Martyn Hett

6 Michelle Kiss, Eilidh MacLeod,

19 The service comes together

Courtney Boyle and Philip Tron

7 Olivia Campbell–Hardy 8 Wendy Fawell, Megan Hurley, Chloe Rutherford, Liam Curry and Saffie-Rose Roussos

9 Jane Carolyn Tweddle, Kelly Brewster, John Atkinson, Alison Howe, Angelika Klis and Marcin Klis

World Responses

Manchester Unites

Manchester & Salford

20 FLO makes a day to remember

11 This is the Place poem

21 Special Constabulary

12 The City unites

22-23 Manchester up and running

13 Pupils pen poem

24-25 One Love concert 26-27 History of the bee

This special issue of Brief is dedicated to the 22 people who lost their lives and the 300 people that were injured in the fatal tragedy at Manchester Arena on Monday 22 May 2017.

With thanks to the following people for their contribution to this issue:

Be published in Brief Editorial team: Melissa Mead, Fiona Carroll, Melissa Pye

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All of the families of the 22 victims for their support with tributes

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The pupils from Kingsway Park School

Designed and produced by: Corporate Communications, Force Headquarters, Central Park, M40 5BP

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PC Nigel Poole

Printed by: New Leaf Printing

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FLO Ally Causey

Contact numbers: 0161 85 65939 / 5938

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Tony Walsh

Email: Brief@gmp.police.uk

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Ryan Williams

Photographers: Chris Oldham and Bill Morris 0161 856 2777 | Picture Desk: Lisa Marks 0161 856 2279

Articles and contributions for the next edition of Brief should be submitted by

Friday 15 September

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Manchester remembers

We remember the fallen

THE attack on the Manchester Arena left hundreds of people injured and tragically took the lives of 22 people. Below are tributes of those that we lost, as described by their closest family and friends.

Please note that not all of the victims have written tributes, this was at the request of the families and we respectfully followed their wishes.

Georgina Callander, 18 From Georgina’s family: “On the 22 May 2017 our lives changed forever as our amazing daughter Georgina Bethany Callander was senselessly taken away after 18 short years.

“Georgina was as beautiful on the inside as she was on the outside, with a smile that was never ending.

She always had big hugs for everyone and her life was blooming like the flowers she loved.

“She had not long passed her driving test and was doing great in her exams. She had been accepted into Edge Hill University - here was a girl who was loving life.”

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Nell Jones, 14 From Nell’s family: “Our Nell was just lovely. She was top class, she was clever and she was fun. She would have a go at anything and just loved life.

“She had her dad and her brothers wrapped around her little finger. She loved shopping and she loved to spend money. She loved clothes, shoes and make-up and was planning on working this summer so she could spend more.

“We can’t wrap our children in cotton wool. She was so excited to go to her first pop concert. She was singing in the car, all the way there.

“Even though she has been taken from us we’ve had 14 lovely years with her and that makes us so happy. They were the best years. We were so lucky to have her.

“Our hearts have been shattered. We loved Nell so very much, she was our world.”

From Elaine’s family: "Elaine was a much loved daughter, sister, Auntie, friend and colleague, the best we could ever have wished for. She was everyone's friend, thoughtful beyond belief with an effervescent and outgoing personality.

"She would have been devastated by the injuries sustained by her partner Paul, and we all wish him a speedy recovery.

"Elaine just loved life, and had a major love of music. Despite what has happened to her, she would want us all to carry on regardless and not be frightened by fear tactics, instead she regularly urged us all to rise up against it.

"Although we will all miss her beyond belief, we absolutely know she will live in our hearts.

“She was the life and soul of the party, yet she did so whilst simultaneously making everyone else feel special and involved. Our love for her is indescribable and the loss incomprehensible but she will always be with us and she will live on through the influence that she has had on us all.”

Lisa Lees, 43 From Lisa’s husband Anthony: “Life will never be the same again. My heart has been ripped apart, you really were such an amazing woman, the perfect mum to India and Lauran, and the coolest nanna to Jayden. You brought joy and happiness wherever you were and whoever you were with. We are all so proud of what you achieved as a beauty therapist. Lisa you really were such an amazing woman.”

From India Lees, Lisa’s daughter: “You were the best mum in the universe and the bestest friend that I could ask for. You always cheered me up when I was upset and have always been there for me.”

Lisa’s mum Elaine: “You were an inspiration to all and should have had a great life ahead of you.

Instead at the age of 43 your time on earth ended, you are now an angel in God’s garden.

“Don’t know how we will go on without you but I know you would want us to, my Darling Daughter I love you now and forever.”

Sorrell Leczkowski, 14 From Sorrell’s Grandad: "On Monday my wife Pauline, daughter Samantha and granddaughter Sorrell went to pick up Sophie and Lauren who had gone to Manchester Arena to watch a pop concert.

“I am absolutely heartbroken to confirm that my granddaughter was killed in the terror attack that claimed so many innocent lives.

“Sorrell was only 14, but she was our rock, she kept us all grounded. She was such a clever, talented, creative girl, there was nothing she couldn’t do.

“She was going to be an architect and wanted to go to Columbia University in New York to study so that she could build hotels with slides coming out of the rooms and so that she could build her mum a house.

“My wife is currently in intensive care, and Samantha is recovering from surgery as she tries to make sense of the devastating loss of her daughter.”

Manchester remembers

Elaine McIver, 43

Martyn Hett, 29 From Martyn’s parents: “At 10.33pm on Monday May 22 2017 our beloved son Martyn just happened to be at the wrong place at the wrong time.

“Words cannot describe the generosity and kindness our families have received over the last few days.

“We are overwhelmed with the amount of lives he has touched and the kind words that are being said about him.

“Martyn was the icon of all our lives. His infectious laugh and his niche sense of humour will stay with us forever.

“He lived for every moment of every day and fitted an entire lifetime of memories into his 29 years.

“Whilst they have taken the life out of Martyn, no one can, and ever will, take Martyn out of our lives.”

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Manchester remembers

Michelle Kiss, 45

From Michelle’s family: "Michelle Kiss was a loving wife to Tony, mother to Dylan, Elliot and Millie, as well as daughter to Mick and Christine and sister to Nichola.

“Family was her life and we are all obviously devastated by her loss. She has been taken away from us, and all that love her, in the most traumatic way imaginable.

“We hope to draw from the courage and strength she showed in her life to get through this extremely difficult time.”

Eilidh MacLeod, 14

From Eilidh’s family: “Our family is devastated and words cannot express how we feel at losing our darling Eilidh.

“Eilidh was vivacious and full of fun. She loved all music whether it was listening to Ariana or playing the bagpipes with her pipe band.

“As a family we would like to express our thanks and gratitude for the support and kind messages we have received at this difficult time.”

Courtney Boyle, 19 & Philip Tron, 32

From Courtney and Philip’s families: From Courtney’s Mum: “My stunning amazing beautiful daughter you were my rock you made me so proud with all you had achieved and my gorgeous crazy Philip you made my world a happy place and now you are both my angels flying high in the sky.”

From Courtney's sister: "Courtney my wonder of a sister who is now a shining yellow star in the sky and Phil, my stepdad, my costa buddy, you were always there no matter what to keep me safe and make me happy."

From Courtney's boyfriend: “My Courtney was an adventurer, a precious & joyous soul. She made people feel loved and feel safe. No one had what that lass had, she was like no other .”

Philip’s mother June Tron: “Our most amazing son, partner, brother, father, uncle, nephew and cousin.

“Philip was such a loving energetic soul; he would light up the darkest room and lift your spirits with his infectious laugh, sense of humour and beautiful smile. Words cannot express the huge void his passing has left in our lives.”

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Manchester remembers

Olivia Campbell-Hardy, 15 From Olivia’s dad Andrew and family: “Olivia was a much loved member of our large, close family.

“She was adored by her parents Andrew and Sharon and grandparents Sharon and Steve, all of whom spent Monday night and all day Tuesday desperately searching for her.

“She has beautiful sisters, Catriona, Seana and Chloe and a Great-grandma, Joan.

“She has so many Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and second cousins, it is difficult to keep count.

“Our memories are of happy times, of fun at family gatherings.

“The ones suffering most are the young people in our family. Their world has changed forever. Suddenly it is not so full of joy and possibility.

“With our love and care they will heal, so please don’t hate in Olivia’s name, we choose to love.

“Our thoughts are with the injured, may they reach a full recovery. Our thanks to the emergency services and GMP for all their help.

“Please now respect our privacy as we take time to grieve.

“We will establish a trust in Olivia’s name to enable young people to take part in the performing arts, Olivia’s passion.”

From Olivia’s mum Charlotte Campbell and Step-dad Paul Hodgson: “Ollie –where do we begin?

“She was so lovely but could be an absolute nightmare in equal measure despite that everything she did we loved. She got away with everything because she was the youngest.

“She was a gobby cow – she was so cheeky, but you just couldn’t tell her off, it was impossible. You’d just end up laughing.

“Ollie loved her family and her boyfriend Lewis. He worshipped the ground she walked on. She could click her fingers and he would come running. They would sit sharing Oreos – she would eat the cream and he would eat the biscuits.

“Ollie and her sister Trina used to fight like cat and dog, but minutes later they would be back being best friends.

“She was obsessed with make-up and wouldn’t leave the house without being fully made up. She loved her eyebrows – they always had to be “on fleek”.

“Anyone who met Ollie would never forget her. She was so loveable and has already changed so many lives.

“We will miss Ollie every day. But this house will always be full of laughter because of the 15 years of memories she gave us.”

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Manchester remembers

Wendy Fawell, 50

From Michael and Joanne Hurley:

From Wendy’s family: "Me and my family are truly devastated by the news. Mum was a wonderful woman. So kind and generous and touched the lives of so many.

"She will be greatly missed. Also I would like to add, how much it means to us, what everybody at home and in Manchester have done to support us at this time. Thank you."

Chloe Rutherford , 17 & Liam Curry, 19 A joint tribute from the family of Chloe Rutherford and the family of Liam Curry: “On the night our daughter Chloe Rutherford and our son Liam Curry died, their wings were ready but our hearts were not.

“They were perfect in every way for each other and were meant to be.

“They were beautiful inside and out to ourselves and our families and were inseparable.

“Chloe always described herself as ditzy who Liam adored and would do anything for, including dealing with Chloe’s demands for chocolate.

“They lived to go to new places together and explore different cities. They wanted to be together forever and now they are.”

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Megan Hurley, 15

“Our beautiful daughter Megan best friend and loving sister to her brother Bradley.

“Megan was a fun-loving, sincere, caring and beautiful young lady.

“Megan had a passion for music and loved going to concerts. She loved socialising and loved having family get-togethers. She also loved to have her friends over for sleepovers or just to have catch ups.

“Cruelly taken from us on a night she had waited so long for. No words can describe how we feel right now, other than our hearts are broken and our lives are shattered.

“Goodnight. God bless. Beauty Queen.”

Saffie–Rose Roussos, 8 From Saffie’s family: “On the 22nd May 2017, our little superstar Saffie was taken from us. She was a stunning, absolutely beautiful little girl with hopes and dreams we had no doubt she would achieve.

“We bought Saffie the tickets to see Ariana Grande for Christmas, and she was counting down the days until she would get to see her idol.

“That night was the greatest night of Saffie's life, she danced, she sang, she was grinning from ear to ear. Her mum and sister didn't even watch Ariana Grande, they watched Saffie. She was buzzing. As tragic as that night has now become, Saffie was happy.

“Our little superstar Saffie, we love you so much.”

Manchester remembers

Jane Carolyn Tweddle, 50

Kelly Brewster, 32 From Kelly’s family:

From Jane’s daughters Harriet Taylor, Lily Taylor & Isabelle Taylor (and Marley the dog): “There are no words for how we feel - our mum was every part of us. She is our strength, our laughter, our inner warrior, our kindness and our compassion.

Forever we will hold on to those traits for it is our mum who instilled them in us.

“Our mum never gave up on smiling and being happy. Our house was full of laughter and love - mum was always going out of her way to make sure us girls were happy, even if she had a bad day she’d still put all her effort in to crack a smile out of us.

“Like our mum used to sing (a lot) 'every moment spent with you is a moment I treasure'.

“Our mum is and always will be our treasure.”⿿

John Atkinson, 26 From John’s family: “John was the devoted Son of Daryl and Kevan.

He was the loving partner of Michael, they had been together for 15 years. He was a caring and thoughtful Brother to Stacey, Laura and Amy. John was also a dear Uncle, Nephew, Cousin and friend to many people. He adored his Sisters and his nephews – his loss to them is immeasurable . John would text his Mum and Sisters every day making sure that they were okay.

“John loved life and he lived his life to the fullest. He was loving, loyal, kind and caring. Nobody mattered more to John than the people that he loved. He was the life and soul of his family and was larger than life. John was well loved for his ‘on point’ eyebrows and his Nike flip-flops – he was never seen without either.

He had a heart of Gold.

“John’s senseless death has left us broken hearted.

Our lives are shattered beyond belief and we will continue to miss John every day, until the end of time.”

“Kelly was the darling daughter of Kevin & Kim, loving partner of Ian, cherished sister to Claire & Adam, much loved Auntie of Demi & Hollie, best friend to Ian's daughter Phoebe and a special sister-in-law to Dale. She was also a special niece, cousin, friend & colleague to many more.

“Kelly was the life & soul of any party and loved to have a good time. She was always bright, bubbly, and her infectious spirit will be missed by many.

“Kelly was at a time in her life where she was truly at her happiest. She was so excited at moving into a brand new home with her partner Ian and Phoebe but most of all she was looking forward to starting a family of her own.

“The hole left in our family following Kelly's tragic passing is immeasurable. Our hearts are all broken and we are truly devastated at our loss. Our world will never be the same again.”

The families of Alison, Angelika and Marcin have asked that only the photos below are featured and we respectfully honour their wishes.

Alison Howe, 45

Angelika Klis, 39

Marcin Klis, 42

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Albert Square Vigil Tuesday 23 May

THE morning after the attack, the city was in a state of shock, still coming to terms with what happened the night before, however that did not stop the spirit of the people of Manchester.

Less than 24 hours since the attack, at 6pm on Tuesday 23 May, over 30,000 people gathered in Albert Square to pay their respects for the victims and show the defiant nature of the city.

Leaders of the city gathered with the public to honour those that had been affected.

Everyone was united in grief and created

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“As your Chief Constable of Greater Manchester and as a father, I cannot begin to imagine how anyone can carry out such an unthinkable act.

“The greatness of this city region is its diversity of people and diversity of thought and we must all stand together and not let the terrorists defeat us, not let them stop us going about our daily business and create fear. We must all live in harmony with each other as we stand together to defeat terrorism.”

CC Ian Hopkins

And they built us a city. They built us these towns And they coughed on the cobbles to the deafening sound of the steaming machines and the screaming of slaves They were scheming for greatness, they dreamed to their graves And they left us a spirit, they left us a vibe That Mancunian Way to survive and to thrive And to work and to build, to connect and create and Greater Manchester’s greatness is keeping it great

This is The Place

By Tony Walsh Manchester!

This is the place in the North West of England It’s ace, it’s the best and the songs that we sing From the stands, from our bands set the whole planet shaking Our inventions are legends! There’s nowt we can’t make and So we make brilliant music. We make brilliant bands We make goals that make souls leap from seats in the stands And we make things from steel and we make things from cotton And we make people laugh, take the mick summat rotten And we make you at home and we make you feel welcome And we make summat happen, we can’t seem to help it And if you’re looking for history then yes, we’ve a wealth But the Manchester way is to make it yourself And make us a record, a new number one And make us a brew while you’re up, love. Go on!

And make us feel proud that you’re winning the league And make us sing louder and make us believe it

And so this is the place now we’ve kids of our own Some are born here, some drawn here but we all call it home And they’ve covered the cobbles, but they’ll never defeat All the dreamers and schemers who still teem through these streets Because this is a place that has been through some hard times Oppressions, recessions, depressions and dark times But we keep fighting back with Greater Manchester spirit Northern grit, northern wit in Greater Manchester’s lyrics And there’s hard times again in these streets of our city But we won’t take defeat and we don’t want your pity Because this a place where we stand strong together With a smile on our face, Mancunians Forever Because this is the place in our hearts, in our homes Because this is the place that’s a part of our bones Because Manchester gives us such strength from the fact That this is the place. We should give something back.

Always remember. Never forget. Forever Manchester.

Choose love.

that this is the place that has helped shape the world And that this the place where a Manchester girl Name of Emmeline Pankhurst from the streets of Moss Side Led a Suffragette City with sisterhood pride And this is the place with appliance of science We’re on it, atomic, we strut with defiance In the face of a challenge we always stand tall Mancunians in union delivered it all Such as housing and libraries, and health, education And unions and co-ops, the first railway station So we’re sorry! Bear with us! We invented commuters!

But we hope you forgive us - we invented computers!

And this is the place Henry Royce strolled with Rolls And we’ve rocked and we’ve rolled with our own Northern Soul And so this is the place to do business, then dance Where go-getters and goal setters know they’ve a chance And this is the place where we first played as kids And me Mam lived and died here, she loved it she did And this is the place where our folks came to work Where they struggled in puddles, they hurt in the dirt

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The city unites WITH more than 200 different languages spoken amongst its people, Manchester has a rich and diverse culture.

Almost immediately after the attack, many communities pulled together to unite and show the world that Manchester says no to terrorism.

The hashtag #westandtogether quickly went viral as it became clear, the people of this city would not be divided.

There were hundreds of examples of where different faith groups came together with people from all cultures to reflect on events in the city, and go above and beyond to help in the immediate aftermath of the attack.

Jewish volunteers helped people trying to find their families and provided food and drink to the police.

Many taxi drivers gave free rides to people who needed to get home and Muslim doctors worked through the night to help the injured, whilst others in the community queued to give blood or offer people a bed for the night.

The Muslim community condemned the attack and arranged its own vigil, where Muslim leaders and Imams from Mosques across the country gathered in Albert Square to show their support. Hundreds proudly displayed placards with the words ‘We Stand Together’, ‘There is no place for hate’ and ‘I Love MCR’.

Faith and civic leaders from across Greater Manchester came together at Manchester Cathedral to sign a pledge to fight hate crime, to promote unity across the region, to stand together as one regardless of differences and to build a safer and stronger Greater Manchester.

Speakers included Chief

Constable Ian Hopkins, Mayor of Manchester Andy Burnham, leader of Manchester City Council, Sir Richard Leese, as well as other members of the major faith groups.

The multicultural city of Manchester has responded with compassion and humanity but the message remains clear. Any form of hate crime or hate incident will not be tolerated. If you witness hate crime or an incident is reported to you, this should be reported through 101, local third party reporting centres or visit the True Vision here: http://report-it.org.uk/ report_a_hate_crime.

One Love concert goers show their support for the city

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Pupils pen a poem for Manchester PUPILS from Kingsway Park High School, Rochdale were just one of the many schools who were affected by the attack.

The day after the attack the children were encouraged to discuss the events in Manchester and how it made them feel. With the help of their teacher they put their feelings together and penned a heartfelt poem (see right).

All of the students involved were international and had arrived in the UK within the last 3-4 months from countries including Italy, Spain, Romania, Afghanistan and Portugal.

Love Manchester, Love Life How do we feel When bombs become real?

Scared, sad, sorry, emotional, confused?

None of them, one of them, some of them All of them.

That’s how we feel when bombs become real.

What do we say to the victims and families?

Difficult words, where do we start?

We cry with you, inside and out.

Remember the good times, the love and the smiles Take care of yourselves. We share our heart.

That’s what we say to the victims and families.

What do we say to attackers and bombers?

Find your heart!

Keep your hate!

Learn to love!

Be true to God! That’s what we say to attackers and bombers.

What do we say to the world out there?

Violence doesn’t stop violence.

Don’t judge by skin or faith.

Religion is not the problem.

We will not hate.

That’s what we say to the world out there.

Love God, love life, love each other.

Officers laid flowers at St Ann’s Square to show their respects

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In solidarity The world has shown its support to Manchester with messages and symbols of solidarity.

THE Manchester Arena attack was a devastating attempt to knock the spirit of the city and the communities who reside here.

Whilst the focus was on the 22 who lost their life that day, the world also responded in kindness to the resilience of the people of Manchester.

Messages flooded in from global leaders as the world united against terrorism. Flags were lowered to half-mast and iconic buildings, including Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, the Orlando Eye and Tel Aviv’s City Hall were lit with the union flag as a symbol of solidarity. The Empire State Building and the Eiffel Tower also went dark as a mark of mourning, standing together alongside Manchester.

The Russian president Vladimir Putin said he was willing to boost anti-terrorism co-operation with the UK, adding that: “Those behind it will not escape the punishment they deserve.”

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation condemned the attack and emphasised the UAE’s unwavering stance that rejects terrorism in all its forms.

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Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau asked Canadians to keep the victims and victims’ families in their hearts.

German chancellor Angela Merkel conveyed her sorrow and added: “I assure the people in Britain, Germany stand by your side.”

In a telegram, Pope Francis expressed his heartfelt solidarity with all those affected by this senseless act of violence and commended the generous efforts of emergency and security personnel.

Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham commented: “Already I have heard extraordinary stories of the outstanding responses made on that night, we are a city united and have shown the world we stand tall in the face of adversity.”

Heartfelt tributes dominated social media with the world expressing their shock and sympathy towards the attack, but praising the emergency services and the City of Manchester for its community spirit and resilient nature.

Sites such as Twitter and Instagram united the world over as celebrities, singers and

notable figures, shared their love and showed their support.

Ariana Grande tweeted: “Broken from the bottom of my heart, I am so, so sorry. I don't have words."

Chat show host James Corden paid an emotional tribute on The Late, Late Show. He explained to his American audience: “A lot of you may never have visited Manchester but you will have heard of it.

“It’s famous all over the world for great football teams, incredible music and the birth place of the leader of the suffragettes. It’s a place full of comedy and curries, but when I think of Manchester, I think of the spirit of the people there, strong, proud, caring people with community at its core.”

This message seemed to be a constant after the attack and throughout the days and events that followed.

Manchester is a strong city with community at its core.

The people are strong, resilient and determined to protect their lives, their children and their city.

It is now months after the attack and people have returned to work, school and concerts continue to go ahead, but what is clear is that the world stood with Manchester to show their support, sympathy and to unite in solidarity.

The Royal Visit HIS Royal Highness Prince William came to Force HQ on Friday 2 June to meet some of the first responders on the night of the attack.

Sergeant Chris Broad from Longsight, who was one of the officers who met the Duke of Cambridge said: “He was really down-to-earth and chatty. He asked me about how the job came in and had a good

understanding of how we operate.

“I was part of Criminal Investigation Department (CID) who arrived on the scene around 10 minutes after our uniform team. By the time we’d arrived there were already 20 paramedics there and I was just helping out wherever I could.

“It’s a real morale booster that he came and spent time speaking to us and thanking us for the work we did that night. It means a lot.”

Tactical Aid Unit (TAU) officers Sgt Kam Hare and PC John Goodman also spoke to Prince William.

Kam said: “We talked through what our officers did on the night. He was genuinely concerned for the welfare of those who attended and advised us to make sure to look after each other and talk to one other.

“Lots of TAU officers attended the main scene as primary responders and we all dealt with the aftermath of the attack, so it was nice to be here on behalf of our TAU colleagues and be recognised for the work we did that night and the continued ongoing specialist work.”

UK leaders’ responses ON the day after the attack, the leading figures of our country offered their sympathy and support as Manchester came to terms with the loss.

“More often enough we experience the worst of humanity, yet in Manchester last night we also saw the best.

“The cowardice of the attacker met the bravery of the emergency services and the people of Manchester.

“The attempt to divide us met countless acts of kindness that brought people closer together and in the days ahead those must be the things that we remember.”

Theresa May, Prime Minister

“The whole nation has been shocked by the death and injury in Manchester last night.

“I know I speak for everyone in expressing my deepest sympathy to all who have been affected by this dreadful event and especially to the families and friends of those who have died or were injured.

“I want to thank all the members of the emergency services, who have responded with such professionalism and care.

And I would like to express my admiration for the way the people of Manchester have responded, with humanity and compassion, to this act of barbarity.”

Her Majesty the Queen

“The solidarity, humanity and compassion that we have seen on the streets of Manchester this week need to be the values that guide our government.

“Britain must ensure we never surrender the freedoms we have won and that terrorists are so determined to take away.

“Those terrorists will be forever reviled and held to account for their actions.”

Jeremy Corbyn, Labour party leader

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Getting the message out FOR Corporate Communications, along with our partners and other police forces, getting messages out at the right time was crucial to managing the aftermath of the attack and reassuring the people of Greater Manchester.

From the minute the first call came in at 10:33pm on Monday 22 May, sharing information was key to allow our emergency services to manage the scene.

The first tweet was sent out at 10.39pm, just six minutes after the first report came in at the explosion.

This set the tone for people to follow GMP’s social media channels for official updates.

It was followed shortly with this update:

Just a few hours later at 3am, the Chief Constable spoke at a press conference confirming what had happened and announcing a support phone line for those

concerned about loved ones.

In the following 24 hours, GMP had already received thousands of mentions on Twitter and other social media channels, as members of the public rallied to show their sympathy and support. More than 5,000 people sent direct messages to GMP via their official Facebook page and there were over 30,000 interactions on Twitter.

During the two weeks after the attack, a press officer sat in Silver Command permanently so that they could issue timely and accurate updates.

A total of 314 tweets were sent from GMP’s main Twitter account relating to the attack, showing that the police were committed to keeping the public as informed as possible. GMP also used Facebook and Instagram to get messages out. The most viewed tweet was the original statement on the incident, which was seen over 25 million times.

In addition, GMP’s local Twitter and Facebook accounts (a total of over 100 accounts) also shared updates, making sure that messages of reassurance reached communities that only follow local accounts.

The value of social media and the work of communications teams in critical incidents cannot be underestimated when it comes to public engagement.

On 27 May, this timeline infographic was published by GMP that helped to explain the speed and progress of the investigation and highlight the excellent response from all emergency services.

This was issued proactively to media and shared on our social channels 169 times, reaching an estimated 13,000 people.

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The service comes together THE number of additional hours that our officers and staff had to put in to ensure the people of Manchester are protected was unprecedented.

Our officers have truly shown their commitment to the job, going above and beyond the call of duty. After the attack happened, forces from across the country

came to Manchester to support our efforts in keeping the public safe and policing a number of large-scale events.

Between 23 May and 12 June 2017, around 210 additional officers every day came to help our staff on mutual aid, with the majority coming from North West forces including North Wales,

Cheshire, Lancashire, Merseyside and Cumbria.

Over the entire period, people from 45 different forces have joined policing efforts in Manchester.

This aid from other forces came in a number of different roles, helping frontline officers, casualty bureau, armed police officers and staff roles too.

The additional support from other forces made sure that events such as the Simplyhealth Great Manchester Run, the One Love concert and the Michael Carrick Testimonial match could still go ahead, while making sure that people on the streets were looked after in the same way they would be any other day.

At every big event that Manchester has hosted over the past few weeks, we’ve seen shots of officers from across the country engaging with people in the city and beyond, enabling them to go about their business with peace of mind. The support we’ve had from additional forces has been overwhelming, with people from different parts of the country slotting into the operational, and day-to-day work necessary to keep Manchester safe.

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A day to remember FAMILY liaison officers (FLOs) are assigned to families to support them through a hard time and keep families up-to-date with the police investigation. They have an extremely pressing job and work hard to inform and comfort the families wherever they can.

FLO Ally Causey has been looking after the family of 15-yearold Eilidh MacLeod who sadly lost her life in the Manchester attack.

Eilidh had travelled down with her family from the island of Barra in Scotland to attend the concert.

Understandably, from the moment they arrived from Barra, it has been an emotional journey especially for Eilidh’s two younger

sisters Laura and Shona.

Ally wanted to do something to make the girls smile again after the loss of their sister so she organised a special treat.

Firstly they went to Barton Air Field to visit the National Police Air Service. When they arrived they were greeted by the crew who showed them round and they even bumped into the North West Ambulance service that had turned up also.

Next it was over to Clayton Brook to visit the police dogs and finally after a busy day, they finished with a McDonalds.

Barra doesn’t have a

ACC Debbie Ford thanks our FLOs “The attack on 22 May devastated so many lives and left families heartbroken and struggling to cope as life moves on.

“Our FLOs have all worked tirelessly to support victims’ families in these incredibly difficult circumstances.

“I know Eilidh’s family really appreciated what they did to try and lift Laura and Shona’s spirits for a while. I also know that this is one of many acts our FLOs have done to try and make victims’ lives a little easier in these terrible and tragic circumstances.

“It is times such as this when we see British policing often at its best and I am incredibly grateful for the work of our FLO team on this very difficult investigation.”

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McDonalds so it brought a whole new meaning to the phrase ‘happy meal’.

The girl’s auntie commented: “It’s been an awful time for the whole family and the girls have been so down, but today is the first time I have seen them smile since arriving in Manchester. It has been lovely to see them so excited in the mist of things, even for just a few minutes.”

Ally and her fellow FLOs, along with the Family Liaison CoOrdinators (FLCs) have done what they can to bring a little bit of light out of a dark situation and we are all very grateful for them.

A Special kind of thanks THE incredible response from the emergency services both during, and in the aftermath, of this tragic incident has been a huge team effort. GMP’s Special Constabulary played an important role and once again reminded us why our volunteers are so invaluable to policing.

The constabulary is made up of over 600 people who volunteer to be a police officer in their own time. During the attack, an overwhelming number of them left their homes and rushed to the city to help. Some attended the scene, others mobilised to support the city centre and others paraded for duty.

Specials at the One Love concert To emphasise the role that the Specials played in the six days post-event, they worked a total of 4990 hours across the six days equating to 124 additional fulltime police officers.

The dedication shown by those men and women who are employed elsewhere and volunteer in their own time, make the efforts all the more impressive. Additional thanks

goes to the companies that released them from their normal working duties to continue their role as a Special.

The Tuesday after the attack saw 197 specials deployed, with some officers working 20-hour shifts. This is a huge credit to the commitment and professionalism of everyone involved and we want to express enormous thanks for the work that they do.

The calm amongst the storm THOUSANDS of people were involved with the aftermath of the attack, and the work shown by GMP and our emergency service colleagues has been praised by the nation. Below is just one story that highlights the dedication and bravery of our workforce. However it is important to remember the many officers and staff who worked equally as hard over this difficult time, and we are grateful for all of you.

PC Nigel Poole was one of the very first officers to arrive at the arena after the explosion. He was greeted with a scene of devastation as people were running to escape in a blind panic. Unsure of what lay ahead, Nigel ran straight into the arena and began moving injured people from the blast area, physically carrying some of them to a make shift triage point to receive medical attention.

Amongst the horrific injuries Nigel was witnessing, he noticed a young girl with her mother.

Eleven-year-old Acacia Seward had severed an artery in her leg meaning she could not move.

Losing a vast amount of blood, Nigel recognised that unless this little girl received medical attention she only had a matter of minutes to live.

He treated the arterial bleed as best he could before giving her a ‘fireman’s lift’ to the triage point.

Thankfully after two operations and a stint in hospital

Acacia is now on her way to recovery. No doubt that Nigel’s quick thinking, first aid and calm manner contributed to saving Acacia’s life and that is something her and her family will be forever grateful for.

PC Nigel Poole with brave survivor Acacia Seward

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Manchester up and running THE May Bank Holiday showed that nothing will stop Mancunians from coming together and enjoying themselves, as it was packed with events and concerts. Extra policing and protection was put in place to ensure everyone felt safe and reassured, able to enjoy a weekend in the city centre.

Kicking off the weekend of events, Friday 26 May saw international elite athletics on the streets of Manchester for the Arcadis City Games. After a minute’s silence, athletes went head-to-head on the purpose built sprint track and pop-up arena in Albert Square, showing resilience and solidarity.

Highlights included pole vaulter Holly Bradshaw breaking the British record twice on Albert Square. In long jump, Rutherford took the victory and Jonnie Peacock won the

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men’s 100m race in the para-athletics.

Sally Pearson, an Australian Olympic champion, praised the city: “It was a really happy atmosphere, it was upbeat. The city is resilient and strong, they’re standing together to show the rest of the world that they are supporting their city, no matter what is going on. It was a huge honour and privilege to support the city at this time.”

The next morning, on Sunday 28 May, 40,000 people came to Manchester’s city centre to take

part in the 10K and half marathon Great Manchester Run. Starting on Portland Street, the runners took a scenic route around the city to cross the line on Deansgate.

Thousands of people came out to run and support, creating an emotional, yet defiant atmosphere for the race after what had been an unprecedented week. Many dedicated their run to the victims of the attack, sporting #WeLoveManchester t-shirts, or bee emblems on their running kit as they raced through the city.

The triple Olympic Champion, Dibaba Tirunesh dedicated her fourth Simplyhealth Great Manchester Run 10k victory to the city.

Before and after the race, people who had come in to take part in the run were seen in St. Ann’s square paying their respects.

After an incredibly upsetting and painful week, Manchester came together to support and enjoy these events, determined not to be defeated.

Music helps to mend hearts ON Saturday 27 May, thousands of people came to Manchester for the Courteeners concert at the Emirates Old Trafford Cricket ground. 50,000 people watched as the Manchester band played their hits and then finished an emotional set with Oasis’ ‘Don’t look back in anger,’ which has since become a defiant anthem for Manchester.

Frontman Liam Fray opened the show with a passionate reading of a poem written by Ryan Williams (published on the right).

After the concert, frontman Liam Fray said: “Last night wasn’t about us, it was about you, it was about our city, your city, thank you for all coming out and being brave. But most of all, thank you for sharing so much love and support, for all the families affected. It made me proud to be Mancunian, it will stay with me forever.“ On the other side of the city, Anastacia played a sell-out gig at the O2 Apollo, donating all sales of the live recording to the victims of the attack and raising more than £1,000.

And the bees still buzz…

A grey Tuesday morning, ‘neath Lancastrian skies We wake once again to wipe tears from our eyes.

Forced to wear robes of weakness and pity, As cowards attack the very heart of our city.

Like always, we’ll comfort and hold one another, A Mancunian family of sisters and brothers.

For a time our strut is reduced to a stagger, But make no mistake, we’ll rekindle our swagger.

We’ll learn how to live with another deep scar.

If you think you can beat us, you don’t know who we are!

We’re Collyhurst, Ancoats, Moston and Sale.

We’re Oldham and Bury; Ashton; Rochdale.

We’re Pankhurst and Turing, the Gallagher Brothers, We’re Morrissey, Marr and a million others!

We’re a city of workers, a city of shirkers.

A city of tracksuits, and bibles and burkas.

Vegetarian, Rastafarian, Atheist, Jew. 100 red! 100% blue.

We’re each of us different but never alone.

In the Cosmopolitopia, we get to call ‘home’.

So, come at us again, and again if you must.

Time after time we’ll rise from the dust.

You’ll never prevail – not against us…

This is Manchester, our MANCHESTER And the bees still buzz!

With thanks to author Ryan Williams

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ONE Love Manchester was the tribute event arranged by Ariana Grande, in memory of those who lost their lives at her concert. It took place on Sunday 4 June.

THE strength, resilience and determination of the Manchester people following the attack has encouraged communities to unite and stand strong.

It was this courage that inspired superstar Ariana Grande to return to Manchester and organise the One Love concert as a tribute to the victims.

Ariana, who was devastated by the attack, promised free tickets to anyone who went to the original show and video calls with those who couldn’t make it.

She even cornered off a special section at the front for those concert goers so they were all together.

One young girl and her sister commented: “It’s really nice that everyone who was at the concert is here together, I don’t know any of these people but we have bonded through our similar situations and it’s a wonderful atmosphere here tonight.”

The event brought over 50,000 people together at the Old Trafford cricket ground on Sunday 4 June, selling out within six minutes. Over £2 million was raised and the proceeds were donated to the ‘We Love Manchester Emergency Fund’, set up by the Red Cross Appeal.

The star studded line up, which included artists such as Pharrell Williams, Miley Cyrus, Katy Perry, Justin Bieber and Coldplay, was matched by the efforts of the police and other emergency services.

GMP had extra support from forces such as Durham, Merseyside and the Met. The highly visible police presence ensured that the public felt safe, and the unity between the public and the police was clear to see.

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Officers danced along with gig-goers, as well as reassuring them throughout the event.

Force photographer Chris Oldham commented: “It was a fantastic event; the determination and the will of the people of Manchester was evident from start to finish. To see everyone united and in such high spirits made my candid snaps easy to shoot.”

The show, which was broadcast in 50 countries, was not overshadowed by the attack and is currently the most-watched TV event of 2017 to date. An incredible 22.6 million viewers tuned in to watch the concert at some point, proving that the world really was sending its love to Manchester.

Just when the concert seemed to be coming to a close, Ariana announced she had a special surprise for the crowd, and none other than legendary Mancunian Liam Gallagher walked out to roars from the crowd. Renditions of ‘Don’t Look Back in Anger’ and ‘Live Forever’ were played with Coldplay accompanying Gallagher.

The event concluded with Ariana’s spine tingling performance of ‘Somewhere over the rainbow’.

The crowd watched silently in awe, and as the realisation of the recent tragic events sunk in, both the audience and Ariana struggled to hold back the tears.

Despite the sorrow, the concert ended on a high and with the assistance and reassurance of our officers, people left the ground feeling safe and secure. As the huge numbers spilled out onto the

streets, the people were determined to continue the electric atmosphere. Groups erupted into song whilst walking down the street and on one tram ride the whole carriage burst out in another rendition of ‘Don’t Look Back in Anger’.

The event was a huge success and it showed the world what a fantastic city Manchester really is. One Love will be remembered for many reasons; the celebrities, the amazing emergency service response, the volunteers and the Red Cross but most of all the spirit of the Manchester people.

Ariana at the concert, sporting her One Love Manchester jumper

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A symbol of Manchester

FOLLOWING the Manchester Arena attack the iconic bee image went viral on social media and became the image that represented our city; it’s hope, defiance and unity.

Bees have been emblazoned throughout the city on street art and memorials.

A honeypot of symbolic images were painted upon walls round the City, the above picture shows a memorial of 22 worker bees appearing just days after the attack.

The symbol has been inked on people in a lasting tattoo, which had the world talking about a city

united in defiance against terrorism.

The use of the symbol was particularly poignant as GMP officers and staff, emergency services and volunteers, worked tirelessly in the immediate aftermath of the atrocity and in the weeks following just like the worker bee.

The bee has now taken on new meaning and will go down in the history as the symbol that brought the City together.

THE humble worker bee is a symbol of the city's hard-working past. It was adopted as a motif for Manchester during the Industrial Revolution in the 1800s, at a time when the area was awash with textile mills, commonly described as ‘hives of activity’ and the workers inside them compared to bees.

‘Busy bee’ is still a term associated with industriousness and hard work, and the worker bee denotes the Mancunians’ hard work ethic.

The history of the Manchester worker bee You’ll see the bee throughout the city, adorning Manchester’s coat of arms and appearing on everything from street bins to the clock face of the Palace Hotel and the exquisite mosaic-tiled floor in the Town Hall.

The bee has become a symbol for people wanting to show their support for the victims of the attack and the people of Manchester.

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A swarm of support WHEN artistic representations of the bee started to appear all over the city, Stalybridge-based tattoo artist Sam Barber was inspired to start her own special appeal.

She came up with the concept of a bee tattoo to help Mancunians show their pride whilst raising funds. The word quickly spread and tattoo parlours all over Manchester and even as far as New York launched their own events to help.

Chorlton-based parlour ‘Sacred Art’ launched the biggest appeal of them all, with over 500 people turning up on Sunday 29 May, some of them queuing from 4am.

In return for the tattoo, the parlour asked for a £50 donation, taking no profits so that the money went directly to the emergency fund.

They raised a staggering £18,000.

It wasn’t just Sacred Art doing their bit for the community - the whole of Chorlton got involved with people bringing food and drink supplies for those waiting in the queue. The generosity of local businesses such as McDonald’s, Domino’s, Morrison’s and Chorlton’s own Irish Club was greatly appreciated, especially from those who had been there since

the early morning.

The owner of the parlour, Ventnor Brewer (Vent) was overwhelmed with the support from the city. He said: “It was heart-warming and emotional to have conversations with the customers and their reasons for getting the tattoo.”

Vent and his team did 290 tattoos on the day, working nonstop for 13 hours due to the demand. He doesn’t know just how many he has done to date, but even months later people are still requesting them. Since that day, Sacred Art Parlour have raised an impressive £22,000.

Dickie Smith, Sacred Art’s receptionist said: “The tattoo is just a little memento, a constant reminder of what happened and being part of a community. It’s a small symbol but everyone can connect to it.”

The Manchester Bee continues to be the symbol of hope and strength for the city and now thanks to Vent, his team and all the

other parlours that launched their own appeals, for many it will serve as a permanent reminder of how people came together in one of the most difficult times we have faced.

Space for more pics?

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ON Sunday 18 June, thousands filled the streets of the city for the Manchester Day Parade. The theme of this year’s parade was ‘magic’, however it was clear that this year meant much more in light of recent tragic events. Heartfelt tributes and symbols of the Manchester Bee could be seen throughout the parade in balloons, banners and t-shirts proving that Manchester will always remember those that we lost.