First Manchester attack victim is named as teenager Georgina Callander
The first victim of the Manchester terror attack has been named – a teenager called Georgina Bethany Callander, aged 18.
She was among at least 22 victims killed in what is believed to have been a terrorist attack last night.
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She was a student at Runshaw College in nearby Leyland – where friends described her as a ‘living angel’ and ‘a ray of sunshine’.
She had previously met Ariana Grande and been photographed with her.
Georgina had tweeted the American pop singer on Sunday saying, ‘So excited to see you tomorrow’.
@ArianaGrande SO EXCITED TO SEE U TOMORROW
— gina ???? today! (@emiliesatwell) May 21, 2017
The 1st Manchester victim identified is Georgina Callander. She tweeted on Sunday that she was so excited to see Ariana Grande. So sad. RIP pic.twitter.com/9lyLwUtZ7i
— Kendall (20-25 ⚾️????) (@Seahawks_Fan95) May 23, 2017
Runshaw College in Leyland, Lancashire, spoke of its ‘enormous sadness’ after hearing that the student died as a result of the blast at the Ariana Grande concert.
A spokesman said in a statement the young girl was on the second year of her health and social care course, and was a former student at Bishop Rawstorne Church of England Academy.
‘Our deepest sympathies, thoughts and prayers go out to all of Georgina’s family, friends, and all of those affected by this loss,’the college said.
‘We are offering all available support possible at this tragic time, including counselling with our dedicated student support team.”
Friends said that Georgina had been one of the first people rushed to hospital in the wake of the attack.
She died in hospital with her mother at her side, friends said.
No terror group has officially claimed responsibility for the Manchester terror attack – but supporters of Isis have celebrated the attack online.
A video posted on social media shows an English speaking Isis supporter holding up a sign saying, ‘Manchester.’
He says, ‘This is only the beginning. The lions of Islamic State of Iraq and Sham are beginning to attack all the crusaders.’
Read more about the Manchester terror attack:
Video shows moment concert-goers flee in terror
Eyewitness accounts: ‘There was carnage’
First victim names as Georgina Callander
Mum breaks down during desperate appeal to find daughter
People in Manchester open their homes to help those affected
