NINETEEN people have died and 50 are injured following a devastating explosion in Manchester.
Police are treating the incident as a possible terror incident after they were called to reports of an explosion at Manchester Arena.
Latest statement on incident at Manchester Arena pic.twitter.com/BEpLOan3dY
— G M Police (@gmpolice) May 23, 2017
Police have advised people to stay away from the area as medics and emergency services attend the scene.
We are working to provide a number for anyone concerned about loved ones to contact which will be released as soon as possible
— G M Police (@gmpolice) May 22, 2017
A concert by US singer Ariana Grande was finishing at the arena, which is located in the centre of the city and has a capacity of 21,000, when the explosion took place.
The pop star and actress is currently touring with her Dangerous Woman show and had performed in Dublin on Saturday.
Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said on Twitter: "Terrible incident in Manchester. My thoughts are with all those affected and our brilliant emergency services."
The Irish Embassy in London said it is monitoring reports from Manchester.
The North West Counter Terrorism Unit is treating the incident at #ManchesterArena as a possible terrorist incident.
— Daniel Sandford (@BBCDanielS) May 22, 2017
We are monitoring reports from Manchester. Advice of @gmpolice is to stay away from the area. https://t.co/2473h8qYbs
— Embassy of Ireland (@IrelandEmbGB) May 22, 2017
Details of a casualty bureau for incident at Manchester Arena will be shared as soon as available. Please stay away from the area
— G M Police (@gmpolice) May 22, 2017
If you look towards the left you see the explosion and hear the bang. I hope to GOD everyone is ok, and so glad Jess and Em are. #manchesterpic.twitter.com/q81KHGEJ6E
— Joe Gregory (@JoeAaronGregory) May 22, 2017
Terrible incident in Manchester. My thoughts are with all those affected and our brilliant emergency services.
— Jeremy Corbyn (@jeremycorbyn) May 22, 2017