Manchester Arena victims remembered as venue re-opens

Noel Gallagher and Peter Kay were among the stars who paid an emotional tribute to the victims of May's terror attack at Manchester Arena.

Four months later, the Manchester Arena has re-opened following a devastating terror attack at an Ariana Grande concert which left 22 dead and over 60 more fatally injured. At the re-opening this weekend, 14,000 fans came together to remember and raise money for the victims who lost their lives. The concert crowd recited the names of the 22 people who died followed by a moment of silence. The event then opened with mayor of Manchester Andy Burnham calling for unity before Rik Astley took to the stage to sing an emotional cover version of Foo Fighters' Everlong as thousands raised their phones. Performances on the night included Noel Gallagher and Pixie Lott. The event was titled We Are Manchester – in a show of strength against terrorism. A team of trained trauma specialists and mental health professionals were also on hand at the event for anyone who needed help. Heightened security was also in place throughout the night and all attendees faced additional screening and bans on backpacks, large bags and some electrical items before they entered the venue. General manager of Manchester Arena James Allen said: "Memories of the night 22 lives were cut short would never fade, but the venue's emergence from the atrocity is a vital milestone for Manchester's continuing recovery."