Council leaders have expressed their horror following the suicide bombing at Manchester Arena.

The explosion - being treated by a terrorist attack by the police - occurred at the end of an Ariana Grande concert last night, killing 22 people and injuring 59 others.

Sir Richard Leese, leader of Manchester City Council, said: 'This is an absolutely horrifying incident and our thoughts are with everyone affected, especially those who have lost loved ones or been injured and traumatised.

‘If it is confirmed this was a terrorist attack it is monstrous act but also a deeply futile one. Manchester is a proud, strong city and we will not allow terrorists who seek to sow fear and division to achieve their aims.’

Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, said: Our first thoughts are with the families of those killed and injured and we will do whatever we can to support them.

'We are grieving today but we are strong. Today it will be business as usual as far as possible in our great city.

'I want to thank the hundreds of police, fire and ambulance staff who worked through the night in the most difficult circumstances imaginable.

Leader of Leeds City Council, cllr Judith Blake, said they were to provide 'whatever support we can to Manchester at this unbearably difficult time'.