MESSAGES of condolence and sympathy have been sent from France to the Mayor of Worcester, following the attack in Manchester on Monday night.

Officials from two of Worcester’s twin towns in France contacted the Mayor, Councillor Steve Mackay, to express their horror after the attacks.

Bernard Grouchko, Mayor of du Vésinet, said: “In this sorrowful time, on behalf of the all the people of Le Vésinet and the City Council, I would like to extend to you our heartfelt condolences. So many innocent lives have been stolen from us in Manchester, and words cannot describe what French people are feeling, having been through such a terrible pain and trauma themselves. We give our condolences to our Worcester friends, and hope that none of your close ones have been hurt.”

Michel Guibout, President of the Vernon Twinning Association, said: “The members of the Vernon Twinning Committee are appalled by the murders in Manchester and want to assure you of their compassion and their friendship. Only together can we fight those who want to destroy us and destroy our values.”

The Mayor of Worcester, Councillor Steve Mackay, said: “The fact that our twin towns have taken time to express their condolences is a tribute to the extent of their compassion for people in Britain at this time.”