by Simon Phetter
News broke last night that 19 people have been killed and several others injured in a suspected terror attack at Manchester Arena which occurred after 22.00 GMT where young people had gathered to watch US singer Ariana Grande in action.
Essex has reacted with a heartfelt warmth of messages, love and prayers.
Lydia Lucy tweeted “Absolutely devastated to hear about the attack at @ArianaGrande gig last night. Awful news 💔💔💔 thoughts are with the family’s xx”
With former TOWIE star Ricky Rayment tweeting “My blood is boiling. I’m filled with anger. I wish I could do something to help. I feel hepless towards the situation. 💔”
A local mother Lorraine Butler tweeted “Manchester you are in my thoughts god bless from Essex 💔💔💔💔”
Harlow Parliamentary candidate Phil Waite “My thoughts are with families & friends of those affected by this incident & with the community & emergency services responding #Manchester”
The prime minister Theresa May has suspended her campaign for the upcoming general election and will chair a meeting of the government’s emergency Cobra committee later, in response to the attack.
