THE devastated family of a former Bolton Wanderers youth player killed in the Manchester terror attacks says the Government should "open its eyes".

Georgina Bethany Callander, from Whittle-le-Woods in Lancashire, was one of 22 people killed by the blast as she left the Ariana Grande concert at the 21,000-capacity venue on Monday night.

The 18-year-old had played in Bolton Wanderers’ girls U11s team, where she is remembered as an “enthusiastic and talented” player.

Her parents said in a statement: "On the 22 May 2017 our lives changed forever as our amazing daughter Georgina Bethany Callander was senselessly taken away.

"Her life was taken away after 18 short years by evil, evil men prepared to ruin lives and destroy families, for what?

"Georgina was as beautiful on the inside as she was on the outside, with a smile that was never ending. She always had big hugs for everyone and her life was blooming like the flowers she loved.

"She had not long passed her driving test and was doing great in her exams. She had been accepted into Edge Hill University - here was a girl who was loving life.

"I wish I could say that Georgina is one of the last to die in this way but unless our government opens its eyes we know we are only another in a long line of parents on a list that continues to grow.

"I want to take this opportunity to thank our wonderful police and rescue services. Without their sacrifice this would have been a lot worse.

"We would also like to thank all the people who have sent caring messages of love and support, especially our local villagers.

"Thank you for the hugs, love and kind words; they really have had a profound effect on us.

And lastly a big kiss to Sky, one of Georgina’s best friends living in New Zealand."

On Saturday, Lesley Callander had told how she found her daughter on a stretcher as paramedics fought to save her life.

Phil Mason, Bolton Wanderers club chaplain, said last week: “It is truly terrible news. It really brings it very close to home and the football club is shocked to hear that Georgina has been the first victim named in the horrific attack at Manchester Arena.

“The whole attack has been horrendous news anyway, but the fact that it has been someone part and parcel of the club’s life and club’s family to be the first young lady to be named is simply terrible news. She is remembered here as a very enthusiastic and talented young lady who enjoyed her football and enjoyed her life, as she was doing on Monday night.