I AM quite sure readers like me have been totally shocked and appalled by the tragic deaths and scenes of fear in Manchester on Monday night.

I’m sure that none of us can make any sense of such a brutal and cowardly attack on the innocents who attended a pop concert.

Furthermore, I’m sure I speak for all of Inverclyde as we pass our heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their precious children, sisters, brothers, cousins and friends.

No words can express how we feel and at time of writing, information about those who have died and the killer are being reported.

The youngest so far being Saphie Roussos, who was eight years old.

There has been a sense of numbness in parliament this week.

We held a minute’s silence offering our respects and condolences to those who were killed and every party leader spoke eloquently and for all of Scotland.

Their measured and uniting comments showed we are in solidarity with the people of Manchester.

As a parent of two young girls who listen to and watch Ariana Grande, I know how much they would love to go and see her in concert.

To think that young children, teenagers and young people attended a concert and won’t return is the worst nightmare of any parent.

I have spoken to my girls to make them aware of what happened and when I see them later in the week, they will get an even bigger hug.

The bravery of the people of Manchester has been well documented and can’t be highlighted enough.

Whether it’s the emergency services or ordinary citizens running to the scene of devastation to help others, it has been an example of man’s humanity to man.

The people of Manchester have shown how a community and a city have rallied to assist others in need.

Many claims and counter claims will be made trying to understand the full details behind the attack.

Let’s be clear, this is an attack of utter cowardice with total disregard for life. No religion or faith can justify this act of barbarism.

People of evil come in all shapes, colours and faiths.

People are showing their support for Manchester and its people and I’m sure we will do that in spades in Inverclyde.

I have written to the Mayor of Manchester, Andy Burnham offering my condolences but also praising the spirit of Manchester which has shown through since.