Jason Manford and John Bishop postpone Manchester charity gig after bomb attack
The comedy twosome were set to perform in the city this weekend.
Stand-up comedians Jason Manford and John Bishop have postponed a charity gig in Manchester following the bombing that killed 22 people and injured 59.
The duo were to take to the stage on Saturday night at The Lowry in the city, but will now perform in October.
In a statement, Manford said: “After consulting with the charity and the venue, myself and John Bishop have decided to postpone our charity show for the Children’s Adventure Farm (CAFT) this Saturday night at The Lowry in Manchester out of respect for those who lost their lives in last night’s atrocity.
“Our hearts are broken for those poor families who have been left devastated by the cowardly attack and our love and respect goes to the emergency services and civilians who helped in this city’s darkest hour.
“Like the great city of Manchester, our comedy gig will be back on Monday 16 October and we will raise even more money to help disadvantaged, disabled and terminally ill in the North West.”
Ticket holders have been advised to contact The Lowry Box Office to exchange their tickets.
Manchester-born comic Manford had earlier taken to Facebook to share a message, in which he revealed he was “absolutely devastated” for those who died in the attack, and their families.
Manford wrote: “I’m so sorry about all those injured and who’s lives have been devastated by his act of cowardice and for all the young people who will never go to another concert in their lives because of this horrible night and will be effected psychologically forever.” (sic)
He said his thoughts are with US pop star Ariana Grande, whose concert at the Manchester Arena had finished moments before the venue was targeted by a suicide bomber.
“My thoughts also go to Ariana Grande who must be absolutely devastated,” Manford added.
“My children adore her and she must be inconsolable today. I hope she knows that she gave so many people an evening of joy and fun and even in those few people’s last moments their hearts would have been full with the happiness she gave them.”
Bishop wrote on Twitter: “My heart goes out to everyone involved in the tragic events in Manchester last night. Heartbreaking.”