AMONG those offering practical and emotional support at the scene of the attack were volunteers and staff from the British Red Cross, who were operating a makeshift reception centre at Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium.

Mike Adamson, the charity’s chief executive said they were also providing ambulance support to local hospitals.

“We are on standby to provide additional support to the emergency response as needed, and we are in regular contact with the local authority,” he said. “Our hearts go out to the families and friends of those affected by this terrible attack.”

Coronation Street actress Jane Danson, who plays Leanne Battersby in the soap, tweeted: “Woke up to this devastating news in Manchester. Thoughts and prayers to all. Heartbroken.”

Manchester-born comedian Jason Manford said he was “absolutely devastated” for those who died in the attack. He wrote on Facebook: “I’m so sorry about all those injured and who’s (sic) lives have been devastated by his act of cowardice and for all the young people who will never go to another concert in their lives because of this horrible night and will be effected (sic) psychologically forever.

“Total respect for our amazing emergency services who run towards trouble and danger when every natural fibres must be telling them to go the other way... And to those legends who made me proud to be Mancunian by offering rooms and lifts home in people’s desperate hour of need. Made me realise that although they think these events make us weaker, they actually bring us together as a community and eventually make us stronger.”

Brendan Cox, widower of murdered MP Jo Cox, tweeted: “Thinking of every family whose lives have been destroyed today by a cowardly hate filled attack. So much pain and so pointless. The pain these attacks inflict is profound & real, & it lasts long after the headlines have moved on.

“Britain will respond as it always does under attack; with love for the bereaved, unity & resolve. They will not change us. They will not win.”