Thousands gather at vigil for Manchester terror attack victims in Albert Square

Thousands have gathered at a vigil in Albert Square, Manchester, to pay their respects to the victims of the 22 May suicide bombing, which claimed the lives of 22 people, including eight-year-old Saffie Rose Roussos.

Mancunians of every creed and colour swept into the city centre to create a united front against the actions of 22-year-old Salman Abedi, the man Manchester Police say was responsible for the blast.

Whether it was to pay their respects or to show their defiance following the attack, the city saw people gathering in solidarity. In one corner the Manchester Sikh Community handed out free drinks to "help the city at a time when things are bad," BBC reports.

A woman, describing the atmosphere at the vigil said: "Love over hate, that's the message

The city mourns for the dead as people shed tears at the vigil where floral tributes were laid for the victims

Members of the public also laid flowers at the candle lit vigil to honour the victims at Albert Square.

The Town Hall bells chimed six when a full five minutes of silence was observed before Lord Mayor Eddy Newman started to speak.

Newman, said: "The people of Manchester will remember the victims forever and we will defy the terrorists by working together to create cohesive, diverse communities that are stronger together. We are the many, they are the few."

The Bishop of Manchester, the Rt Rev David Walker described the city's belief in diversity and unity and that those who would seek to destroy such things were "the very few, but we are the many, we are Manchester."

Poet Tony Walsh read his ode to Manchester: This is The Place, which was received with cheers from the crowd.

The sporting world also paid respect to the victims of the terror attack in Manchester. The Ajax players and staff took part in a minute silence ahead of the UEFA Europa League Final that will take place between Ajax and Manchester United at the Friends Arena on 23 May in Stockholm.

Ajax manager Peter Bosz has said that the terror attack has taken the shine off the Europa League final. "The feeling that prevails is the final does not have the glow it should have. It should be a football feast but because of the events in Manchester we are all affected, particularly as we are playing Manchester. It is horrible. My sympathies are heartfelt."

Separately, West Midlands police said a 39-year-old Birmingham man was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon. The man is believed to have a history of mental ill health and is said to be known to police.

Supt Andy Parsons said: "Officers spotted the man acting suspiciously and spoke to him. At this point they have arrested him."

He added: "The man was carrying a bag, and as a precaution, Victoria Square where the vigil was being held, was cleared for around 15 minutes. A small axe was recovered along with a large stick."