DORSET ‘stands with Manchester’ as community leaders condemn Monday night’s suicide bombing, express solidarity with the city and send their condolences to the families of those killed.

The appalling attack killed 22 people, including an eight-year-old girl, in the worst terrorist incident to hit Britain since the July 7 attacks in 2005.

Some 59 others were injured after a bomber detonated an device in the foyer of Manchester Arena as fans left an Ariana Grande concert.

The Islamic State group has claimed one of its members carried out the attack.

Police in Dorset have urged people to remain vigilant and to be on alert although not to be alarmed.

Bridport team rector the Rev Andrew Evans, said: “Good people everywhere, including Dorset, will condemn what happened on Monday night.

“We stand with them in shock, and we mourn with them.

“It was meant to be a happy occasion, largely for young girls and women who have been caught up in it, injured and lost lives."

He added: “The response of people in Manchester was so wonderful. They show the very best side of human nature, and the bomber shows the very worst side of human nature.”

Cllr Susie Hosford, Mayor of Dorchester, said: "All our hearts go out to the people of Manchester. We have been flying our flag at half mast, and we will be holding a minute's silence at our meeting (last night).

"I think it's heartwarming, the response of the Manchester community, these people are the majority. It shows what communities are all about, and how they rally round."

Wyke Regis Parish rector the Rev Deb Smith, said: “All of this puts things into perspective.

“I lived in Manchester for a long time. It’s a devastating thing for that city, it’s a brilliant city and it’s got brilliant people who are warm and welcoming.

"There have been amazing acts of kindness and compassion in the midst of this horror. ”

Bishop of Salisbury, the Rt Revd Nicholas Holtam, and representatives of the Muslim community there also responded to the attack, saying: “The murderous attack on innocent young people that we have seen in Manchester fills us with horror.

“We utterly condemn this evil act.We offer our deep condolences to all who have suffered bereavement, injury and trauma."

Alison Chown, divisional secretary for the National Union of Teachers in Dorset, said: "Our thoughts are with all those who have been affected by the events in Manchester this week and we stand in solidarity with them in their unity as a community."

Superintendent Mike Rogers, of Dorset Police says that maintaining public safety is the force's priority.

He said: “Our thoughts are with everyone who has been affected by the events in Manchester and our deepest condolences are with the families and friends of those who tragically lost their lives.

“Dorset Police stand with Greater Manchester Police and other forces across the country. Our aim is to reduce the risk to the public and maximise public awareness.

“At this time, there has been no change to the threat level in the UK but this is reviewed on a national basis and Dorset Police will, if necessary, respond accordingly. We regularly review intelligence and information and would like to reassure the public that at this time there is no specific threat to Dorset. The public should be alert but not alarmed.”