Middleton stands together with Manchester and against all barbaric acts of terror and extremism

Anne Hetherington with Lyn and Ian Rigby

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The community of Middleton came together in Middleton Gardens to hold a vigil on Thursday the 25 May to remember those that lost their lives, those injured and families and friends affected by the Manchester terror attack.

Over 300 people attended the event, organised by Keeley O'Mara, and lit candles, laid flowers and let off balloons.

Councillor June West opened the vigil followed by speeches from local clergy.

Samantha Booth's poem was read out to those in attendance.

Also at the vigil were Lyn and Ian Rigby who gave a family statement to reinforce the need to stand together against terror and extremism:

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to all the families who have so cruelly lost loved ones in the Man-chester terror attack. An attack which took place on the fourth anniversary of the day that our son and brother Lee Rigby was murdered.

“This attack so sickeningly carried out at a venue where young children with their parents, grandparents, aunties and uncles had enjoyed an evening of music and fun.

“We recall in the days that followed Lees death the overwhelming sense of loss, numbness, disbe-lief, a sense of fear asking time and time again why? Why on that day? At that location? Tormenting ourselves with the 'what if' questions.

“What if – he had gone another way?

“What if - we had agreed to meet him?

“What if...

“Yes, there were days and there are still days when we feel angry. It’s a natural reaction to loss. The only advice we can give those families and communities who are now feeling that loss, that numbness, that disbelief and pain is that anger does not bring your children, your loved ones back.

“That’s why as a family we set up the Lee Rigby Foundation to now bring something good out of the horror that happened to us as a family. Our projects will leave a positive legacy for Lee and all the good things he stood for.

“The community support our family has received has been incredible and that’s why vigils like this are so important. Letting the families know that you care, reaching out to them at their time of need.

“Importantly with terrorism ensuring that the terrorist know that we do stand together with Manchester and against all barbaric acts of terror and extremism.

“Our thoughts are with you all.”