News
City to come together to mark ‘poignant’ sixth anniversary of Manchester Arena attack
"Manchester will not forget them."
Emily Sergeant -
19th May 2023 
Manchester City Council has arranged plans to mark the “poignant” anniversary of the Manchester Arena attack.
Monday 22 May 2023 marks the sixth anniversary of the terror attack which saw 22 people tragically lose their lives, and left thousands more injured and affected, during a bombing at the end of an Ariana Grande concert at Manchester Arena back in 2017.
Every year, the city of Manchester comes together and joins the rest of the world in marking the day and remembering those who went to a concert and never returned home.
Manchester City Council has confirmed how the city plans to mark the day, revealing that the focal point for this year’s personal remembrance and reflection will be the Glade of Light memorial – which was officially opened last May by the now Prince and Princess of Wales ahead of the fifth anniversary.
Civic representatives from the city will lay floral tributes to those who lost their lives, and will also take a moment to remember all who were injured or otherwise affected.
Annual cleaning and maintenance work to the memorial has taken place to ensure “it looks its best for anyone who wishes to mark the anniversary” – with the marble halo set to be temporarily fenced-off while these works take place.
Two one-minute silences will take place at Manchester Victoria Station during the day – at 12pm and 22:31pm – which is the exact anniversary time of the attack.
Candles will also be available for people to light.
The names of those who lost their lives will also be read out during services at Manchester Cathedral on at 9am (Morning Prayers), 1:10pm (Holy Communion), and 5:30pm (Choral Evensong), and the cathedral will also remain open throughout the day for those who wish to light a candle or pray.
Speaking ahead of the anniversary, Cllr Bev Craig – Leader of Manchester City Council – said: “It’s hard to believe six years has passed since the terrible events of 22 May 2017 and our hearts continue to go out those who lost their lives, their loved ones, those who were injured and everyone still dealing in some way with the legacy of that day.
Read more:
- More than 16,000 people trained in first aid thanks to campaign set up after Manchester Arena attack
- Nearly half of the Manchester Arena attack injury compensation claims have been rejected
- Paralysed Manchester Arena attack survivor given prestigious award for ‘inspirational’ fundraising efforts
“We know 22 May will always be a poignant day for many people.
“Manchester will not forget them.”
Featured Image – Manchester City Council
