Young Derry man caught up in horrific Manchester bomb attack which killed 22 people describes it as the 'scariest night of my life'

A young Derry man caught up in last night’s bomb attack in Manchester in which 22 people were killed has described it as the ‘scariest night of his life’.

Emmett McGilloway works as a suite attendant at the Manchester Arena where the explosion happened at 10.35pm on Monday at the end of a pop concert by the US singer Ariana Grande.

The singer is hugely popular with young people and it is believed a number of children are among the dead.

Emmett said he was near the area where the bomb exploded.

He said the ground shook and people started running.

The young Derry man described the scene as ‘surreal’.

In a post on his Facebook page, Emmett said he wanted to let his family and friends at home know that he was ok.

Greater Manchester Police said the lone male attacker, who died in the blast, was carrying an improvised explosive device which he detonated.

Relatives are using social media to hunt for missing loved ones.

Police have set up an emergency telephone number in response to the attack. The number is 0161 856 9400.

British Prime Minister Theresa May said the incident was being treated as a terrorist attack.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny said: “The vile acts carried out in Manchester last night are a reminder of the depravity of the views held by the few. Those beliefs have no place in our society.

"My thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families and all those affected by this atrocity. I am heartbroken for all."

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Charlie Flanagan said they are not at this time aware of any Irish citizens affected. In a statement, Mr Flanagan said anyone with concerns for family and friends can contact the Consular Division of his department on 0035314082000.