Counter-terrorism police have now arrested eight in connection with the attack

Past 24 hours:

- Another man was arrested in Moss Side on Friday morning, taking the total in custody to eight.

- All 22 victims have now been named (see below).

- Police now believe Abedi assembled the bomb himself, after learning how in Libya.

- Security forces are now carrying out more raids after fears that he may have made more than one bomb.

- The Queen visits Royal Manchester Children's Hospital - see here

- Former US President and German Chancellor Angela Merkel send messages to the people of Manchester - see here

- Intelligence leaks have caused a major rift between the UK and US. Donald Trump vows to prosecute over 'deeply troubling' leaks. UK has resumed sharing intelligence with the US.

Prime Minister Theresa May raised the UK's terror threat to its highest level for a decade this week, following fears that more attacks may be imminent.

The decision came after Monday night's terror attack at Manchester Arena, where suspect Salman Abedi - a 22-year-old Manchester-born former student at Salford University, born to Libyan parents - detonated a nail bomb which killed 22 people and injured up to 120 following a concert by US pop singer Ariana Grande.

Three of Abedi's relatives have so far been detained, one in the UK and two in Libya

Leaks from a US official claim UK authorities had been warned of Abedi's increasingly radicalised views by members of his family and community in Manchester.

Further leaks, including the identity of the bomber and forensic crime scene photographs published in the New York Times, have caused a major rift between the UK and US. President Donald Trump has vowed to prosecute those responsible for the 'deeply troubling' leaks.

READ: The Manchester bomb doesn't change our open society

WATCH: Video of the Manchester attack - as it happened

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READ: The £50 bee tattoo raising money for victims

Home Secretary Amber Rudd has admitted that Abedi was known to UK police, and he is believed to have travelled to both Libya and Syria before returning to the UK to carry out the attack. 

Security forces now believe Abedia made the bomb himself, after learning the trade in Libya. Police continue to carry out raids after fears that he may have created more than one bomb.

Islamic State have claimed responsibility for the bombing, calling Abedi a 'solider of the caliphate'.

170524 Salman Abedi
Manchester-born Salman Abedi, 22, was a former student of Salford University
170524 Manchester Arena Terror Attack Granby House Screen Shot 2017 05 24 At 13 22 29
Heavily armed police raid Granby House in Manchester City centre Louise Bolotin

Counter-terrorism police have now arrested eight in connection with the attack as they continue to investigate a suspected terrorist network. Abedi's 23-year-old brother was arrested in Chorlton on Tuesday, with four more arrested on Wednesday, two on Thursday and one more on Friday morning.

A police statement says a woman arrested in Blackley on Wednesday evening has since been released without charge.

Meanwhile, relatives of Abedi have been detained in Libya, including his father, Ramadan Abedi, and brother, Hashim, who Libyan authorities say was 'aware of all details' of Monday night's bombing.

On Thursday morning, a bomb squad was scrambled to a college in Hulme, however, a suspicious package was found to be a false alarm.

On Wednesday, heavily armed police entered the Granby House apartment block in a Manchester city centre. Officers were reportedly seen emerging with packages. This follows an armed raid on another property in Fallowfield on Tuesday, where police carried out a controlled explosion.

170525 St Anns Square Manchester Arena Terror Attack Img 0363
Queues form to lay flowers in St Ann's Square on Thursday
170523 Second Victim To Be Named Is Saffie Rose Roussos  Manchester Arena Terror
The youngest casualty so far is Saffie Rose Roussos, who was just eight-years-old

All 22 victims have now been named. They are: 

Georgina Callander, 18, Saffie Rose Roussos, 8, John Atkinson, 26, Olivia Campbell, 15, Kelly Brewster, 32, Alison Howe, 45, Lisa Lees, 47, Angelika Klis, 40, Marcin Klis, 42, Martyn Hett, 29, Jane Tweddle-Taylor, 51, Nell Jones, 14, Michelle Kiss, 45, Chloe Rutherford, 17, Liam Curry, 19, Eilidh MacLeod, 14, Wendy Fawell, 50, Sorrel Leczkowski, 14, Courtney Boyle, 19, Philip Iron, 32, and off-duty police officer Elaine Mcaver.

Amongst the 59 injured rushed to hospital by ambulance, twelve are said to be under the age of sixteen. A further 60 'walking wounded' were also been treated for injuries. 23 people remain in critical care.

The Queen visited the Royal Manchester Children's Hospital on Thursday morning, to meet victims of the attack and the staff who worked day and night to treat them. It is understood that there are currently fourteen children receiving treatment at the hospital off Upper Brook Street - five of which remain in a critical condition.

170523 Armed Police Spinningfields Manchester Arena Terror
Armed police stationed in Spinningfields on Wednesday

Following the terror threat upgrade, the government has deployed 1000 troops to UK streets as a precaution and to alleviate the strain on UK armed police forces.

It is only the third time the terror threat has been raised to 'critical'. The previous two came in 2006, when police foiled plans to attack transatlantic flights, and in 2005, following attempts to bomb a nightclub in London.

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Balloon message in St Ann's Square

Meanwhile, thousands have packed into Manchester's Albert Square and St Ann's Square to attend vigils over the course of the week.

On Tuesday evening, Mancunian poet Tony Walsh read a rousing and emotional ode to Manchester (see below) in front of Town Hall, while well-wishers continue to cover the floor outside St Ann's Church with messages, photos, flowers and balloons, following a minute's silence on Thursday morning.

170525 Manchester Arena Terror Vigil Screen Shot 2017 05 25 At 10 56 15
Crowds paying their respects in St Ann's Square

What we know so far:

- The UK terror threat level has been raised from 'severe' to 'critical' - meaning more attacks could be imminent. 1000 troops have been deployed to UK streets.

- The attack took place in the foyer of Manchester Arena at approximately 10.33pm as a sold out concert by American popstar Ariana Grande drew to a close.

- So far 22 people have been confirmed dead and 120 more injured following a terror attack at Manchester Arena,

All 22 victims have now been named. They are: Georgina Callander, 18, Saffie Rose Roussos, 8, John Atkinson, 26, Olivia Campbell, 15, Kelly Brewster, 32, Alison Howe, 45, Lisa Lees, 47, Angelika Klis, 40, Marcin Klis, 42, Martyn Hett, 29, Jane Tweddle-Taylor, 51, Nell Jones, 14, Michelle Kiss, 45, Chloe Rutherford, 17, Liam Curry, 19, Eilidh MacLeod, 14, Wendy Fawell, 50, Sorrel Leczkowski, 14, Courtney Boyle, 19, Philip Iron, 32, and off-duty police officer Elaine Mcaver.

- The suspect has been identified as Manchester-born former Salford University student, Salman Abedi, 22, born to Libyan parents. Abedi is thought to have recently returned from trips to Syria and Libya.

Ambulance outside Manchester Arena on Monday night - 22 died and dozens more were injuredAmbulance outside Manchester Arena on Monday night - 22 died and dozens more were injured

- Leaks from a US official claim UK authorities had been warned of Abedi's increasingly radicalised views by members of his family and community in Manchester.

- Further leaks, including the identity of the bomber and forensic crime scene photographs published in the New York Times, have caused a major rift between the UK and US.

- Counter-terrorism police have now arrested eight in connection with the attack as they continue to investigate a suspected terrorist network. Abedi's 23-year-old brother was arrested in Chorlton on Tuesday, with four more arrested on Wednesday, two on Thursday and one more on Friday.

- Relatives of Abedi have been detained in Libya, including his father, Ramadan Abedi, and brother, Hashim, who Libyan authorities say was 'aware of all details' of Monday night's bombing.

- The attack is the deadliest act of terrorism in the UK since the 7/7 London bombings in 2005, where 52 people died.

- Heavily armed police entered Granby House in the city centre on Wednesday, this after a raid on another property in Fallowfield on Tuesday where police carried out a controlled explosion.

170525 St Anns Square Manchester Arena Terror Attack Img 0362
A carpet of flowers spreads across St Ann's Square following Thursday's minute's silence

How the 24 hours after the attack unfolded...

22:05

The UK terror threat level has been raised from 'severe' to 'critical' - meaning attacks could be imminent.

The government says the military will now be deployed to protect key sites. Whether this includes sites in Manchester is not yet clear, though protection at large public events such as festivals and concerts is likely.

20:10

Manchester City Council and the British Red Cross have teamed up to launch the 'We Love Manchester Emergency Fund'.

A statement released by the partnership said: "The fund will support people who have been injured or bereaved by the attack. The donations will help alleviate suffering and ensure that victims and their families do not face short-term financial difficulties.

The British Red Cross have kicked off the appeal with a £50,000 donation from their Disaster Fund. To donate go to redcross.org.uk/manchester or call 0300 456 4999 (people can also donate via British Red Cross shops).

18:30

Poet Tony 'Longfella' Walsh with a rousing ode to Manchester grit and spirit at the vigil for bombing victims. It's been a moving day for everyone here. What a beautiful evening... what horrific circumstances... what a city.

18:00

There must be thousands in Albert Square, an unbelievable turnout. We didn't expect anything less. Those present include Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, Lib Dim leader Tim Farron, Speaker of the House John Bercow, Home Secretary Amber Rudd and local faith leaders. Prime Minister Theresa May was in Manchester but didn't take to the stage.

17:35

Police have confirmed Salman Abedi, 22, as the suspect. However, Chief Constable Ian Hopkins says because they have not yet formally identified Abedi, they can comment no further.

17:30

Hundreds already packing out Albert Square for the vigil...

17:28

Statement from Manchester City Council regarding Etihad Support Centre

"Our thoughts remain with all those affected by this horrifying incident, especially those who have lost loved ones or been injured or traumatised.  

"The Etihad Stadium has been used as a support centre throughout the night and today for families and others directly affected by the incident and in need of ongoing information and support.
 
"Food, shelter, rest, and a safe environment with professional help on hand has been provided and this will continue as long as necessary.
 
"Anyone needing information or support should in the first instance call the helpline number 0800 096 0095.
 
"Our heartfelt thanks go to our emergency services for their response and also to council staff who have been and continue to do all they can to support."

16:30

A crowdfunding page set up by the Manchester Evening News to help victims is well on the way to raising £500k, helped by a generous £100k donation by Manchester-based online clothing giants, BooHoo. 

Elsewhere, another crowdfunder set up by social media agency Social Chain has raised almost £10k.

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Press have identified the suspect as Salman Abedi

16:05

US sources have identified the suspect as Manchester-born Salman Abedi, 22, the second youngest of Libyan parents.

Reports say Abedia grew up in the Whalley Range area of Manchester - close to where a 23-year-old man was arrested earlier today.

16:00

A third victim has been named as John Atkinson, 26, a Man United fan and competitive dancer from Bury. Friends say he was a 'happy gentle person' and a 'beautiful soul'.

15:21

Two updates from the police, who are seeking footage of last night's attack and encouraging people to attend the vigil to be held in Manchester's Albert Square between 6-7pm. 

We'll be reporting live from the vigil from 5.30pm...

More updates to follow

15:00

Prince Charles has released a statement following this 'appalling atrocity':

'My wife and I were so profoundly shocked to learn of the truly dreadful event which took place in Manchester last night.

'That such a large number of people, including so many young concert-goers, lost their lives or have suffered so much in this appalling atrocity is deeply distressing and fills us with intense sadness.  

'Words cannot adequately express what so many families must be feeling at this incredibly difficult time and our most heartfelt sympathy is with all those who have so tragically lost loved ones or who have been affected in some way.'

14:25

14:15

Defiant sign goes up in Manchester's Northern Quarter.

13:58

Police confirm they have executed two warrants and one controlled explosion

13:45

Image purports to show 23-year-old man being arrested on Wilbraham Road in Chorlton (picture: Ed Caesar)

13:36

Among 59 injured are 12 children under the age of 16, according to medical director of North West Ambulance Service, David Ratcliffe.

13:30

Second victim to be named is Saffie Rose Roussos... she was eight-years-old


13:15

Pictures from Twitter user @TTBXXX reportedly show heavily armed officers raiding a house on Elsmore Avenue in Fallowfield. Eyewitnesses say police carried out a controlled explosion at the property.

Heavily armed officers in Fallowfield
Heavily armed officers in Fallowfield


13:10

Reports now of an incident in Fallowfield... linked with the nearby arrest in Chorlton/Whalley Range?

13:02

BBC with unconfirmed reports that the suicide bomber was British.

13:00

Reports say that PM Theresa May is on her way to Manchester

12:50

According to Reuters, ISIS has claimed responsibility for the attack.

12:39

Update: 23-year-old man was arrested by armed police in the Whalley Range/Chorlton area earlier today.

12:25

Some quotes from PM Theresa May's statement earlier:

- "This was among the worst terrorist terrorist incidents we have ever experienced in the United Kingdom and although it is not the first time Manchester has suffered in this way it is the worst attack the city has experienced and the worse ever to hit the north of England."

- “All acts of terrorism are cowardly attacks on innocent people but this attack stands out for its appalling, sickening cowardice, deliberately targeting innocent, defenceless children and young people who should have been enjoying one of the most memorable nights of their lives."

- “The police and security services believe they know the identity of the perpetrator but at this stage of their investigations we cannot confirm his name."

- “The threat level remains at severe. That means that a terrorist attack remains highly likely..."

- “...for as so often while we experienced the worst of humanity in Manchester last night we also saw the best."

170523 Theresa May Manchester Terror Attack Speech
Theresa May: "...while we experienced the worst of humanity in Manchester last night we also saw the best."

12:20

Police still urging people to stay away from the city centre...

12:09

Police have confirmed the arrest of a 23-year-old man in South Manchester in connection with Monday night's bombing.

12:05

The Arndale is now being reopened. Panic seemingly over...

11:57am

Police say Arndale arrest is unconnected to last night's terror attack. They have just posted this tweet:

11:50am

Hearing that Arndale panic was a false alarm. People in the city centre understandably jumpy. Calling police now to confirm...

11:30am

Reports that Manchester Arndale has now been evacuated. Videos appear to show armed police arresting a man on Market Street (below).

11:22am

Runshaw College in Leyland, Lancashire has named one of its pupils, Georgina Callander, 18, as one of Monday night's casualties. Posting on their Facebook page they said:

'It is with enormous sadness that it appears that one of the people who lost their lives in Monday’s Manchester attack was one of our students here at Runshaw College.

'Georgina Callander was a former Bishop Rawstorne pupil studying with us on the second year of her Health and Social Care course.

'Our deepest sympathies, thoughts and prayers go out to all of Georgina’s friends, family, and all of those affected by this loss.

'We are offering all available support possible at this tragic time, including counselling with our dedicated student support team.'

170523 Manchester Terror Victim
Georgina Callander met Ariana Grande in 2015

11:15am

PM Theresa May has said that the police believe they know the identity of the bomber, however, they are not yet revealing the name.

10:50am

US President Donald Trump has called those behind the bombing 'evil losers'. He said in a statement given in Bethlehem:

"As representative of the people of the United States I would like to begin by offering my prayers to the people of Manchester in the UK. I extend my deepest condolences to those so terribly injured in this terrorist attack and the many killed, and the families, so many families, of the victims... so many young beautiful young innocent people living and enjoying their lives, murdered by evil losers in life.I won't call them monsters because they would like that term, they would think that a great name. I will call them losers because that's what they are, they're losers and we'll have more of them, but they're losers."

170523 Donald Trump Manchester Attack
US President Donald Trump​ has called those behind the bombing 'evil losers' BBC

10:40am

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has released this statement:

'London stands united with the great city of Manchester today after this barbaric and sickening attack. This was a cowardly act of terrorism that targeted a concert attended by thousands of children and young people. 

'My heart goes out to the victims, their families and everybody affected. Once again we have seen the heroism of our brave emergency services. They have our full support and are in all our thoughts today. 

'I am in constant contact with the Metropolitan Police, who are reviewing security arrangements in London. Londoners will see more police on our streets today.

'Manchester and the rest of Britain will never be cowed by terrorism. Those who want to destroy our way of life and divide us will never succeed.'

10:20am

Long queues forming at the Norfolk House Blood Donor Centre in Manchester city centre - great to see residents rallying around their city

10:05am

There will be a vigil for victims in Albert Square tonight at 6pm

9:20am

Here's footage of that press call with Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham and Council Leader Sir Richard Leese...

9:00am

Also missing is fifteen-year-old Olivia Campbell (pictured below) - again please share

8:45am

Reports that eight-year-old girl, Saffie Rose Roussos (pictured below), and  is still missing - please share

8:48am

The German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, said: "It is incomprehensible that someone could use a joyful pop concert to kill..."

8:15am

European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker has said:

“It was with great sadness and profound shock that I learnt of the brutal attack that struck Manchester. It breaks my heart to think that, once again, terrorism has sought to instil fear where there should be joy, to sow division where young people and families should be coming together in celebration.

I would like to convey my deepest sympathies to Prime Minister May and to the British people. Today we mourn with you. Tomorrow we will work side by side with you to fight back against those who seek to destroy our way of life. They underestimate ours and your resilience – these cowardly attacks will only strengthen our commitment to work together to defeat the perpetrators of such vile acts."

Juncker1
Jean-Claude Juncker said: "Today we mourn with you".

8:00am

Burnham will take part in PM Theresa May's Cobra meeting via video link at 9am.

7.50am

In a statement given to the press outside Manchester Town Hall, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, alongside council leader Sir Richard Leese, said:

"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.

"We have received messages of support from cities across the country and the world - we thank them for that.

"But lastly I want to thank the people of Manchester, who, even in the minutes following the attack, opened their doors to strangers and drove them away from danger. They gave the best possible immediate response to those who wish to divide us - and it will be that spirit of Manchester that will prevail and hold us together."

Leese added:

“As a city we will have to take some time to grieve. We have to ensure that terrorism never wins so it's business as usual as much as possible.

"This city will pull together. It is a dark day but something that Manchester in its unique way will make sure we turn into a strength.

"We need to be alert but we must not be afraid.”

170523 Andy Burnham Richard Leese
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham (left) gave a statement to the press this morning

7:00am

Police chief constable Ian Hopkins has confirmed in a statement that there are now 22 dead - some of which are children.

Hopkins also said that police believe the bombing was carried out by sole male attacker using an IED - who died following the attack

5:31am

Update from GMP says anyone needing help should go to Man City's Etihad Stadium...

5:11am

If confirmed as an act of terrorism, the attack at Manchester Arena would be the deadliest UK terrorist attack since the London bombings on 7th July 2005, where 52 people were killed by four suicide bombers on three subway trains and a bus.

5:00am

As dawn breaks, police are still asking that people stay away from the area surrounding the Manchester Arena. Victoria Station remains closed and some Metrolink services are affected - check here for updates

4:10am

North West Ambulance Service says 60 ambulances were sent to the scene. Reported injuries include shrapnel wounds.

170522 Manchester Arena Terror Attack 2
60 ambulances were scrambled to the scene

4:01am

Sikh temples in Manchester offering food and accommodation to stricken people.

3.32am

Video has emerged from inside the venue of the moment the explosion took place. Some reports suggest nail bomb was used after nuts and bolts seen scattered around blast area.

3.10am

North West Ambulance Service confirms injured toll is now 59...

3:09am

The prime minister will chair a meeting of the government's emergency Cobra committee at Downing Street at 9am on Tuesday. She has also suspended election campaigning.

3:07am

Police emergency number for concerned relatives and loved ones is...

0161 856 9400

3:05am

Full statement from Greater Manchester chief constable Ian Hopkins:

"I can confirm the details of events tonight that we currently know. At around 10.33pm last night we received reports of an explosion at the Manchester Arena in the city centre. It was at the conclusion of an Ariana Grande concert. 

"Currently we have 19 people confirmed to have died and around 50 people injured.

"The injured are being treated at six hospitals across Greater Manchester. My thoughts are with all those who have been affected and we are doing all we can to support them.

"Officers from GMP and emergency services are working at the scene and are supporting those affected. We are coordinating the response from GMP headquarters.

"An emergency number is available for those who are concerned about loved ones or anyone who may have been in the area. It is 0161 856 9400.

"We are currently treating this as a terrorist incident until we know otherwise. We are working closely with the national counter-terrorism policing network and UK intelligence partners.

"This is clearly a concerning time for people but we are doing all we can, working with local and national agencies to support those affected and gather information about what has happened tonight. As you will understand, we are still receiving information and updates, so will provide more details when we have a clearer picture.

"I want to thank people for their support and would ask them to remain vigilant and if they have any concerns report them in confidence to us on the anti-terrorist hotline: 0800 789321.

"It is important people avoid the area so that we can effectively deal with the incident."

3:17am

Eyewitness accounts say some of the inured were crushed and trampled as they fled the venue

2:50am

Armed and masked police are still surrounding the arena...

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Armed police at the scene

2:20am

PM Theresa May has released a statement: "We are working to establish the full details of what is being treated by the police as an appalling terrorist attack.

"All our thoughts are with the victims and the families of those who have been affected."

2:02am

Sir Richard Leese, Leader of Manchester City Council, released this statement:

"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 a monstrous act but also a deeply futile one. Manchester is proud and strong city and we will not allow those who seek to sow fear and division to achieve their aims. "We give heartfelt thanks to our emergency services for their response and council staff are doing all they can to support."

2:00am

Unmarked police cars filmed arriving at the scene...

1:58am

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said this on Twitter...

1:56am

Buses arriving at the arena presumably to carry people home. Reports of taxi drivers offering free lifts to stranded concert-goers.

1:50am

Police confirm that a controlled explosion has taken place close to the arena in Cathedral Gardens, however, the package was found to contain clothes.

Video in which you can hear explosion:

1:30am

Police carrying out controlled explosion in nearby Cathedral Gardens

1:28am

Video shows people fleeing the concert venue following the explosion

1:25am

Greater Manchester Police have said they are working to set up a contact line for relatives and loved ones.

1:15am

Live report from Confidential editor David Blake outside Manchester Arena

1.10am

Statement from Greater Manchester Police:

Just before 10.35pm on Monday 22 May 2017, police were called to reports of an explosion at Manchester Arena.