MORE than 80 community and civic leaders and members of the public attended a special gathering for prayers at Bradford Central Mosque to remember those affected in the Manchester Arena bombing following an Ariana Grande concert on Monday evening.

Zulfi Karim, general secretary of the council for mosques and secretary of Bradford Central Mosque welcomed everyone who attended stating it was a chance for everyone to show their respects to those who are suffering through loss of friends and family members.

"We are here to come together to show solidarity for the people of Manchester and those who've lives have been changed.

"These things make us more resilient as a community and show us that we have more in common. We keep on going."
Scott Bisset chief superintendent of West Yorkshire Police said: "There was no second thought about coming here today. It's really important we are seen to stand together."

Bradford Cathedral's Bishop Toby Howarth added: "The events in Manchester left us all with a whole range of feelings. It is good to be here in a place like this and at a time like this."

While Canon Paul Maybury said: "It is an occasion where we stand proudly in solidarity."

Bradford Council leader Susan Hinchcliffe said: "Everyone is shocked and saddened with what's happened in Manchester and people want to come together and stand against events of this nature."

Kersten England chief executive of Bradford Council said: "I speak on behalf of the council when I thank you (Bradford Central Mosque) for extending your generosity and opening your doors. 

"I want people to hold in their hearts those who were at the concert and hold them close.

"There is unseen good work going on and remind people how dependent we are to this hidden force. People have been working through the night.

"Our communities and faiths are wrestling with emotions. There is so much going on keep us at a place we know best, generous, warm and supported. That's Bradford at its best."

Lord Mayor of Bradford Councillor Abid Hussain said: "It is very sad what took place in Manchester. It was a great tragedy but we are all united. Bradfordians are very caring, loving people."

Mr Karim concluded: "Thank you to all members of the community across all faiths who have attended. ‎Our book of condolence is to be passed to the Bishop of Manchester and the people of Manchester when it is full.

"Please remember there is no place for hate."

A candlelit vigil is being held in Centenary Square, in Bradford, tomorrow (Thursday) to remember those affected in Manchester.

It has been organised through the South Asian People's Forum and Pakistan Journalist Association and will begin at 5.30pm.