Manchester Arena bombing: how Manchester will mark the sixth anniversary of the terror attack

Manchester will come together to remember the lives lost in the Manchester Arena terror attack six years on from the bombing which killed 22 people and left many others seriously injured.

The sixth anniversary of the bomb detonating at the city centre arena at the end of an Ariana Grande concert in 2017 will be marked on Monday 22 May.

The focal point for remembrance and commemoration in the city will be the Glade of Light memorial, which was opened last year by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

Here is how the city will be remembering one of the darkest episodes in its recent history and paying tribute to the victims.

How is Manchester marking the Manchester Arena bombing anniversary?

The 22 lives lost in the Arena terror attack and the many other people who were injured in the bombing will be remembered at the Glade of Light six years on.

Civic representatives will take part in a memorial ceremony and lay floral tributes to those who were killed while also remembering those who were hurt or otherwise affected.

Two one-minute silences will also be held on Monday 22 May at Manchester Victoria railway station. The first one will be at noon and the second will be at 10.31pm, the exact time the bombing happened. There will be candles available for people to light to remember the victims.

The names of the 22 people who were killed will also be read out on the anniversary day at Manchester Cathedral during morning prayers at 9am, holy communion at 1.10pm and choral evensong at 5.30pm. The cathedral will be open throughout the day and anyone who wishes to light a memorial candle or pray will be welcome.

In the run-up to the anniversary the Glade of Light will undergo its annual cleaning and maintenance work. This will be carried out between Monday 15 May and Friday 19 May. The marble halo at the centre of the memorial will be fenced off while this work is done.

As well as the white marble halo which bears the names of the 22 victims of the bombing, the Glade of Light has plants which grow naturally in the UK countryside. The halo which is the centrepiece also has personalised memory capsules containing mementos and messages inside it, placed there by the families of those who died.

What has been said about the Arena bombing anniversary?

Manchester City Council leader Coun Bev Craig said: “It’s hard to believe six years has passed since the terrible events of 22 May 2017 and our hearts continue to go out those who lost their lives, their loved ones, those who were injured and everyone still dealing in some way with the legacy of that day.

“We know 22 May will always be a poignant day for many people. Manchester will not forget them.”