THE new mayor of St Helens Cllr Joe Pearson has paid his respects to victims of the suspected terror attack in Manchester following what he called a “barbaric attack.”

Councillor Joe Pearson, who was sworn in as the new mayor of St Helens this month, said: “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of those who lost their lives as a result of this barbaric attack, and we pray that those seriously injured can make a full recovery.

“Being just down the road from Manchester, we want the people of a remarkable city to know that we stand with them in this moment of darkness.”

A book of condolence has been opened at St Helens Town Hall to allow residents the opportunity to show their respects to those affected in last night’s atrocity in Manchester.

It will be open for signing at the main reception in St Helens Town Hall between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.

As well as this, the Union Flag is flying at half-mast above the town hall today, and the Steve Prescott Bridge will be lit in red, white and blue this evening – to show solidarity with the people of Manchester.

Residents can also leave messages of sympathy online by visiting sthelens.gov.uk/book-of-condolence-manchester-arena-attack-22nd-may-2017