HAMPSHIRE politicians and emergency services have responded to a suicide bomber attack in Manchester which left 22 people dead.

Some 59 people were also injured when the blast caused by an improvised explosive device carried by the attacker detonated at the Manchester Arena.

The Islamic State terrorist group has claimed responsibility for the attack, although this claim has not been verified.

Southampton Medina Mosque issued a statement from Harun Khan, secretary general of the Muslim Council of Britain, strongly condeming the "horrific" attacks.

At least 22 people have died after an explosion at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester on Monday night.

The statement says: "My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families.

"I understand teenagers and children have been caught up in what the police has confirmed to be a terrorist attack.

"This is horrific, this is criminal. May the perpetrators face the full weight of justice both in this life and the next.

"I pay tribute to the police and emergency services who have worked valiantly to save lives last night.

"They were helped by civilians who rushed in to offer their support.

"I urge all those in the region and around the country to pool together to support those affected."

Parlimentary candidate for Basingstoke representing the Conservatives, Maria Miller said: "An appalling and barbaric terror attack deliberately targeting young people. Thoughts are with all those involved and emergency services."

With Ranil Jayawardena‏ adding: "A truly evil act in Manchester last night. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families."

Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane, Cllr Paul Frankum Tweeted: "My thoughts and prayers are with all the people affected by events in Manchester Arena last night #WeStandTogether."

While the borough council themselves is inviting people to display messages of condolence on its website

Michael Lane, Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, said that residents should be vigilant.

He said: "My thoughts and prayers are with, and for, all the people of Manchester and all the attendees and families of those involved in the terror of last evening.

“There can be no excuse or sense behind this vile criminal action.

“I would like to echo the early words of the Prime Minister and Home Secretary – that the public should stay vigilant, being alert but not alarmed.

“And I would like to reinforce the many words of respect for the emergency services and the community response to this tragic event in Manchester.

“As Police and Crime Commissioner, I know from my job that we are blessed to have brave, prepared and professional emergency services visibly responding, and also behind the scenes a large number of people working with the common purpose to protect us, to prevent actions such as this and to build vibrant positive communities where the seeds of such evil do not flourish.”

Meanwhile anyone who witnesses suspicious activity is urged to report it to the anti-terrorist hotline.

:: Anyone with concerns over loved ones can contact 0161 856 9400 or 0161 856 9900 for assistance.

:: Any footage from the scene can be uploaded at ukpoliceimageappeal.co.uk or ukpoliceimageappeal.com :: The Anti-Terrorist Hotline is 0800 789321. Anyone with urgent concerns should contact 999.