Charlie Rowley, Chair of UIverston Community Enterprises

The terrible tragedy of the MEN Arena terror attack and the heart-breaking stories which unfolded in its aftermath made me pause to consider how fortunate we are living here in the quiet, semi-rural surroundings of Ulverston.

But distance does not insulate us from the impact of this awful attack. Many of the victims travelled from far afield to attend the concert. Manchester is regarded by many Ulverstonians as our most accessible city neighbour, and people of all ages are regular visitors to enjoy the shopping, the nightlife and other attractions.

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I know Manchester well having attended numerous events there and can well imagine the shock of the attack, but I also know that Manchester is a tremendously resilient city. It emerged stronger from a terror attack in 1996, and I am certain it will do so again now as the people from the city and around the region rally in support.

In the midst of the horror there were many stories in the media about the wonderful selfless response from ordinary people who stepped up to help those caught up in the attack. It demonstrated that whilst there are individuals who wreak havoc on others in the name of their chosen cause, there are many more who are prepared to embrace strangers in an expression of love not hate.

That selfless and welcoming approach to people is very much in evidence here in Ulverston. Our own Coronation Hall in Ulverston attracts thousands of visitors through the year to a huge variety of shows, concerts and events. Last weekend thousands of people visited the town for the Taste Cumbria event, and over the next couple of months the town is hosting the International Music Festival, Another Fine Fest, the Carnival, Furness Tradition, Retro Rendezvous, the Canal Summer Gala and the International Buddhist Festival.

Those events rely on the commitment of volunteers to ensure their success, and the support of a huge variety of visitors.

After the MEN Arena tragedy security is going to be foremost in the thoughts of the organisers and those attending the events.

The best way that we can demonstrate our everyday defiance of the philosophy of fear is to continue to be patient with extra security, be vigilant to care for ourselves and for others, but most of all continue to be open-hearted in the way we deal with others, and help Ulverston to live up to its reputation as Cumbria’s friendliest town.