Local leaders in Manchester have thanked the public and the city’s two major football clubs for raising over £4m to support survivors of the attack at the Manchester Arena.

Donations to the We Love Manchester Emergency Fund reached £4.1m in 48 hours thanks to the public’s generosity and a joint £1m pledge from Manchester City and Manchester United.

The fund will support people who have been injured or bereaved by the attack, and ensure victims and their families do not face short-term financial difficulties.

Sir Richard Leese, leader of Manchester City Council and Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Turnham, yesterday issued a joint statement thanking the football clubs for their donation.

‘This is a wonderful act of generosity and speaks directly to the mood of our city and all its people,’ they said.

‘It shows how in our darkest hour people are coming together and that Manchester is a city of true solidarity – truly a City United.’

The lord mayor of Manchester, Cllr Eddy Newman, also said: ‘I have been overwhelmed by all the support coming from across the world to help those affected by this terrible tragedy.

‘People across the globe have been struck by our city's defiance and resilience and want to help. It will make a real difference to those affected. Thank you.’