Leader Cllr Bev Craig speaks to Manchester's Muslim communities following an incident at a Manchester mosque last night.
Cllr Craig said:
"No one should have any fear in attending their place of worship and I know how distressing the incident at Manchester Central Mosque will be for our Muslim communities - particularly during the holy month of Ramadan, when the city's mosques are at their busiest.
"Although I am deeply relieved that no one was harmed, thanks in no small part to the worshippers and mosque leaders who acted calmly and swiftly until the police arrived, it's important to acknowledge that this is an attack by any other name on our Muslim communities who deserve to feel safe and be able to worship without fear. We have been assured by GMP that extra patrols will be in place.
"Manchester is a city built on tolerance and respect where communities come together. We stand with our Muslim residents and wish you a peaceful and blessed Ramadan – knowing that we will do everything in our power to keep you safe.”