HUNDREDS of people gathered across East Lancashire to pay their respects to the victims of the Manchester terror attack.

Vigils were held in Blackburn and Nelson yesterday and one will be held in Accrington at St James' Church from 7pm today to remember the 22 people children and adults who were killed and prey for all those affected.

Around 1,000 people gathered outside Blackburn Town Hall to hold a minute’s silence and listen to speeches from Blackburn with Darwen Council leader Cllr Mohammed Khan, Mayor Cllr Colin Rigby and the chairman of the area’s interfaith forum Derek Estill.

Cllr Khan said: “Our thoughts are with those who have lost their loved ones, those who are injured and those effected by this horrific crime.

“We know people from Blackburn with Darwen were caught up in this awful and barbaric crime.

“Together we can defeat those who want to divide us and spread hate.”

Cllr Rigby said: “We have all been shocked and saddened by this terrible attack.”

Faith leaders from churches and mosques held a public vigil next to the shuttle in Nelson town centre where prayers and statements for peace were made.

Pupils also gathered at St Mary’s College in Blackburn.