POLICE have thanked members of the public for the kindness shown to officers and staff in Manchester.

Following Monday’s attack at Manchester Arena, the city centre team are said the support shown over the past few days - including donations of food, drink and offers of hugs - has kept everyone going.

They are also encouraging people to stand together to show Manchester is ‘open for business’.

Inspector Phil Spurgeon said:“It’s great to see so many people coming into the city centre to support these events this weekend, enjoying everything this great city has to offer and showing that people are feeling safe.

"We have still got an increased police presence, as people would expect, and this will continue through the bank holiday and beyond, ensuring that people do continue to feel safe.

"My officers, as well as those across the Force, have been working long hours since Monday night and, like everyone, they have been greatly affected by what’s happened.

"However, what’s really helped us through a difficult few days has been the overwhelming support and kindness from the people of Manchester. I want to thank each and every person who has added to this.

“Support has come in many forms, from hugs and kind words to boxes of pizzas being delivered to police stations. Just today, a lady who wanted to do her ‘bit’ for Manchester has arranged for a delivery of 2,400 tea bags to be brought to us to be able to make a warm brew after patrols.

“We can’t accept everything that’s sent to us, of course, but we’re doing our best to thank everyone personally. In addition to this, we’re looking into ways that we can get some of the generous donations to the volunteers who have been working for free since Monday night.

“Regardless of the support that we’re receiving it’s so important that we remember the people who matter most in this – the people who have lost their lives and their loved ones, and the people who were injured. We’re thinking about you all.”