​Memorial unveiled to Radcliffe man killed in Manchester Arena bombing

A permanent memorial to Radcliffe man John Atkinson, who was killed in the Manchester Arena bombing in May 2017, has been erected in the centre of his home town.

Friends and family gathered to remember John when the memorial was unveiled at Radcliffe Piazza.

The sculpture features a bee, which has come to symbolise the spirit of unity which brought people together in the aftermath of the terrorist attack, on top of a plinth which bears John’s name, his photo and musical notes from his favourite song.

John, a support worker for children with additional needs, was aged 28 when he died and had lived in Radcliffe all his life.

Radcliffe councillor Sharon Briggs, cabinet member for communities, said: “We will never forget those who died in the bombing, and I hope this memorial gives John’s family some comfort and serves to celebrate his life.”

ENDS

Press release issued: 28 January 2020.

Picture: We will remember – family and friends gather at the unveiling of the memorial to Radcliffe man John Atkinson, including (right of memorial) his step-father Kevan Price, his mother Daryl Price and Cllr Sharon Briggs.