Cheshire joins the UK in remembering the Manchester Arena attack

Today marks a year since the fateful attack that killed 22 people.

Cheshire has joined people from across the country in a minute’s silence to remember the Manchester Arena attack.

Today marks the one year anniversary of the atrocity which saw 22 people lose their lives, after a suicide bomber detonated a device following an Ariana Grande concert.

Among those who were tragically killed in the bombing were Cheshire school girl Nell Jones, police officer Elainer McIver from Holmes Chapel, and Martyn Hett from Stockport.

Families of the victims were in attendance at a special ceremony at Manchester Cathedral , alongside Mayor Andy Burnham, Prime Minster Theresa May and Prince William. 

Crowds gathered outside the cathedral before and during the service, with many laying flowers at sites of remembrance across the city – including Manchester Town Hall and Saint Anne’s Square.

Silence was also observed outside town halls in Chester and Macclesfield. 

Offices, public buildings, shopping centres and airports across the region came to a standstill at 2.30pm to honour those who tragically lost their lives.

Later tonight at 7:30 pm there will be a public event in Albert Square-'Manchester Together- One Voice' where the Manchester Survivors Choir and Parrs Wood High School's Harmony Group will perform. 

A communal 30 minute sing along will follow, displaying the united front of the people of Manchester. 

At 10:31 pm bells will ring from buildings across the city to mark the fateful moment the attack took place. 

Earlier today Ariana Grande showed her support on Twitter:

"Thinking of you all today and every day. I love you with all of me and am sending you all of the light and warmth I have to offer on this challenging day."

The star visited the injured in hospital shortly after the tragic incident and returned just two weeks after to hold a star-studded charity concert.

Cheshire West and Cheshire Council will lower their flags today on council buildings as a mark of respect.

Following the minute silenceheld in the town centre, Lord Mayor of Chester Alex Black lit a candle of reflection in the town hall. 

Books of condolences will be open until 31st May.