Manchester remembers together two years on: 22 May

15 May 2019

City events will commemorate the second anniversary of the Manchester Arena attack

Manchester City Council has announced that the second anniversary of the 22 May 2017 Manchester Arena terror attack, which took 22 lives, will be marked with a civic memorial service at St Ann’s Church at 2pm on Wednesday, 22 May 2019.

Although it is recognised that many more will want to attend, it has been agreed with the families that the service will be a personal and private event for the families who lost loved ones, those injured and representatives of those who were first to respond.

While it was right that the first anniversary last year was marked with a series of high profile events, Manchester City Council, in consultation with the families affected, has agreed that this year’s anniversary will be more intimate.

Like last year, at 10.31pm on 22 May – the exact anniversary – bells will ring out from buildings across the city centre including Manchester Town Hall, Manchester Cathedral and St Ann’s Church.

Sir Richard Leese, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “Manchester will never forget the terrible events of 22 May 2017 nor the remarkable display of unity and love which followed.

“The anniversary has a particular resonance but especially for the families who lost loved ones. As always, their views are paramount in our considerations.

“Everyone's experience of the terrible events of 22 May 2017 was different and we recognise and respect that others may wish to mark it in their own ways.

“We are also making progress towards a permanent physical commemoration in the city, a space which will be a focus for reflection and remembrance.“

Manchester Cathedral will be open through the day on 22 May and all are welcome to spend some time in quiet reflection and prayer. There will be opportunities to light a candle and spend time remembering those who died, those still suffering physically and mentally and everyone affected by the attack.

A minute's silence will be observed during the service at St Ann's Church at 2:30pm and staff may also wish to join in remembrance and reflection at this time.