Bereaved families praised for 'extraordinary dignity' as scheduled evidence ends at Manchester Arena inquiry

The long-running public inquiry into the Manchester Arena bombing ended as it began.

Tuesday - day 194 - marked the final day of scheduled evidence and, as on day one back in September, 2020, the names of those who died in the atrocity were read out in court amid respectful silence.

All present were upstanding for a minute's silence.

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The evidence, the court heard, would likely have an 'enduring effect' in Manchester and across the country.

There was praise for the bereaved families, many of whom have been ever present at Manchester magistrates court as distressing details about how their loved ones lost their lives were poured over day after day.

Addressing the inquiry's chairman, Sir John Saunders, counsel to the inquiry Paul Greaney QC said: "Much of the evidence that we have heard has been harrowing and we have no doubt that it will have had an enduring effect on all who have been present to listen to it and to see it.

"That includes those representing the core participants, it includes the inquiry legal team, most certainly, and, sir, we dare say that it includes you as well."

"It does," replied Sir John, a retired High Court judge.

Mr Greaney went on: "But more than anybody, the effect of the evidence on the bereaved families must have been enormous and, sir, we are certain that you will agree, it is appropriate that we should observe that the dignity with which they have listened to and viewed the evidence has been extraordinary."

"I think it is entirely appropriate that we should now end, as we started, with the reading out of the names of those who tragically died, and we also remember those who are injured as well," said