Queen Elizabeth says whole country shocked by Manchester attack

She thanked police and the emergency services, and expressed admiration for the way the people of Manchester have responded to the attack

Queen Elizabeth expressed her deepest sympathy on Tuesday to all those affected by the suicide bomb attack in Manchester, which killed 22 people and wounded dozens at a British concert by U.S. singer Ariana Grande in the English city.

Armed police block a road near the Manchester Arena in central Manchester. (AP)

“The whole nation has been shocked by the death and injury in Manchester last night of so many people, adults and children, who had just been enjoying a concert,” she said in a statement.

“I know I speak for everyone in expressing my deepest sympathy to all who have been affected by this dreadful event and especially to the families and friends of those who have died or were injured.”

She thanked police and the emergency services, and expressed admiration for the way the people of Manchester have responded to the attack: “With humanity and compassion to this act of barbarity.”

Police say they have arrested a 23-year-old man in connection with the attack.