ARIANA Grande was said to have been “in hysterics” knowing that young children who had come to see her perform were among those killed in the tragedy.

Grande suspended the rest of her world tour, while her manager, Scooter Braun, issued a statement condemning the attack. “We mourn the lives of children and loved ones taken by this cowardly act,” he wrote. “We are thankful for the selfless service tonight of Manchester’s first responders who rushed towards danger to help save lives.”

British TV stars shared particularly emotional tributes, with presenter Davina McCall posting: “Words fail me ... thinking of Manchester ... and all those who have lost loved ones x.”

Great British Bake Off judge Paul Hollywood wrote: “Feel sick after hearing the news about the cowardly attack in Manchester last night ... my thoughts are with all the families involved ... #stopradicalisation.”

British-born star James Corden also paid a heartfelt tribute presenting his US programme The Late Late Show.

Speaking of Manchester, he told his American viewers that “a more tight-knit group of people you will be hard pressed to find... Strong, proud, caring people with community at its core”.

“And if it was even possible, the spirit of the people of Manchester will grow even stronger this evening. My thoughts and prayers are with everyone in Manchester tonight.”

Model Bella Hadid posted on Twitter saying she was “devastated and saddened that this is what the world has come2. Praying 4 the families in Manchester, the beautiful souls that have been taken, & Ari.”
She ended her tweet with a broken heart emoji.

Kim Kardashian West tweeted: “Up early & ready [sic] about what happened in Manchester. This is truly so senseless & heart breaking. My heart goes out to everyone involved.”

A second tweet read: “I can’t imagine the fear and agony these parents must be going through searching for their kids.”

New Order and former Joy Division star Peter Hook wrote: “My daughter made it home safe from Ariana Grande last night. My heart goes out to all parents and those involved. Manchester stay strong. X”

Tenor Andrea Bocelli reached out to fellow singer Grande, tweeting: “My dear @ArianaGrande. My sorrow and thoughts are with the innocent victims and all their families at this tragic time. Andrea #Manchester.”

Hours after a post condemning the “disruption”, actress and writer Lena Dunham tweeted: “Can’t stop thinking about the joy of going to your 1st concert. Bravery & hope. All violence is tragic. This is impossible to shake.”

Singer Sarah Harding also shared her sorrow, tweeting: “Thoughts are with the families and victims of the #manchesterattacks. Yet more innocent lives lost incl children... what has our world come to?”

Miley Cyrus wrote on Instagram: “Wishing I could give my friend Ariana Grande a great big hug right now ... so sorry you had to be part of such a tragic event.”

Justin Bieber, who performed in Manchester earlier this year, tweeted the hashtag #PrayforManchester while fellow American stars Katy Perry, Taylor Swift and Cher offered “prayers” to all involved.

Former One Direction bandmates also added their support following the atrocity, with Harry Styles posting on Twitter: “I’m heartbroken over what happened in Manchester. Sending love to everyone involved. H”

Niall Horan described the attack as “horrendous”, while Liam Payne said his thoughts were with “those experiencing such tragedy”.

Payne’s partner, singer Cheryl, posted: “Absolutely sickened & angered by this senseless, evil attack. Thoughts are with everybody affected. Such a disturbing time we live in.”

Simply Red’s Mick Hucknall wrote: “Heartbreaking news from my home town. Manchester be strong. Brainwashed social misfits will not change the way we are, the way we live.”

In the world of acting, Big Little Lies star Reese Witherspoon tweeted: “Sending prayers to the people of Manchester.”

Russell Crowe posted: “My heart goes out to everybody affected by the horror of events in Manchester, and to Ariana.”