Reactions to the deadly terror attack outside an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester, England have started flowing in from key players of the U.K. music business, including BPI, AEG Live and UK Music chief Michael Dugher.
We'll update this compilation as statements become available:
Manchester Arena operator SMG:
"Last night, our community suffered a senseless tragedy. Our entire team's thoughts and focus are now on supporting the people affected and their families. We are assisting the police in any way we can. We cannot praise the emergency services enough for their response and have been inspired by the way the people of this great city of Manchester rallied round last night and have continued to respond today. It shows the very best of this city. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with all of those affected by last night's tragedy."
Geoff Taylor, Chief Executive BPI & BRIT Awards:
"Our thoughts and prayers are with all the families and music fans caught up in the horrific attack in Manchester. Music is a force for peace and love that unites us, however much those with hate in their hearts may try to divide us."
AEG Live/The O2:
"We are shocked and deeply saddened by the terrible tragedy in Manchester. Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected and their families. We are in contact with the promoters of Ariana Grande's tour and will update as soon as we have further information regarding the planned dates at The O2."
UK Music chief executive Michael Dugher:
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those affected by this horrific attack. It is even more distressing that children and teenagers have been targeted. We owe a huge debt of gratitude to our brave emergency services and the venue staff. We know venues take security very seriously and do all they can to minimise risks, including training staff how to deal with major incidents. As a result of police investigations there will no doubt be a further review of these measures. Music has the power to bring people together and is so often a celebration of peace and love. We will not let terrorism and the politics of violence, hatred and division conquer that spirit."
Manchester O2 Apollo:
"For the next 48 hours our social media activity will be silent in sympathy with all those that lost their lives or were injured, physically and/or mentally, by the devastating attack in Manchester last night. Our thoughts are with those affected as well as the emergency services working tirelessly to keep us safe in all that we do. We will update on Thursday morning with our updated plans for all of our shows following a lead from the relevant police forces but we are certain we will not be defeated by such cowardice. All shows are scheduled to continue at this time and as part of our ongoing commitment to ensure the safety of our customers, security measures have been enhanced to reflect yesterday's events."
Phil Bowdery, Chair of the Concert Promoters Association:
"We are deeply shocked and saddened by last night’s senseless attack at the Ariana Grande Concert. This is heartbreaking news and our thoughts and love are with everyone in Manchester at this time – in particular those that lost their lives or were affected by this devastating incident and their families and friends. All members of the Concert Promoters Association will continue to work with venues, Police, stewarding companies and the relevant authorities and it is our understanding that outside of the Manchester Arena and the Ariana Grande tour, all other planned concerts and events will go ahead, as advertised, unless ticketholders are directly advised to the contrary. Fans should check with venues direct for specific updates.
In light of this attack on our concert going community, we ask for the support and understanding of our patrons with regard to any security measures which are in place for the safety of the public, and urge everyone to be vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour. Our deepest sympathies and condolences are with all those affected by this horrific incident."
