A REDDITCH church has opened its doors to express sympathy, solidarity and support for the victims of the Manchester suicide attack. 

The gathering took place yesterday at St Stephen's Church in Church Green West.

There was no church service just peaceful and appropriate music, and a book of condolence was opened.

Bill Hartnett spoke of a "united Redditch", the town's annual faith and diversity walk, the lowering of the flag and said why terrorism will not win.

"We will stand together united on the side of decency," he said.

"Tonight was a chance to come together for quite reflection to express condolences and sympathies."

Several faiths were represented and spoke expressing sympathies and the heart-breaking tragic senseless loss.

It is believed a number of residents from Redditch were in the arena on Monday, but thankfully were not hurt.

At least 22 people were killed and almost 120 were injured in the blast caused by an explosive device detonated at the Manchester Arena on Monday evening.

Police were called to reports of an explosion at 10.33pm, shortly after US singer Ariana Grande had finished her performance.

Following the attack, Redditch Council lowered the flag at the town hall to half-mast as a sign of respect.

The town's new mayor Jennifer Wheeler has also written to the mayor of Manchester sending sympathies on behalf of the borough.