Manchester explosion: Theresa May says blast is being treated as 'an appalling terrorist attack'

Theresa May has paid tribute to the victims of an "appalling terrorist attack" in Manchester in which at least 19 people died.

In a statement released at around 2.20am on Tuesday morning, the Prime Minister said: "We are working to establish the full details of what is being treated by the police as an appalling terrorist attack.

“All our thoughts are with the victims and the families of those who have been affected.”

Ms May will chair a meeting of the Government's emergency Cobra committee on Tuesday.

She said the authorities were on scene after 19 people were confirmed dead following reports of an explosion at an Ariana Grande concert.

Nineteen people died after a blast tore through Manchester Arena, police said, and 59 were injured.

The force said in a statement: "This is currently being treated as a terrorist incident until police know otherwise."

The police update said: "Just before 10.35pm on Monday 22 May 2017, police were called to reports of an explosion at Manchester Arena.

"So far 19 people have been confirmed dead, with around 50 others injured.

"This is currently being treated as a terrorist incident until police know otherwise."

Witnesses reported hearing a "huge bang" at the venue shortly after US singer's gig finished on Monday evening.