The following is a statement from Deputy Chief Constable Adrian Hanstock, British Transport Police (BTP):
“Seven days have passed since the tragic attack at the Manchester Arena which claimed the lives of many innocent people. Our thoughts remain with all those affected by this incident and who continue to try and come to terms with this devastating attack.
“Since this event, Manchester Victoria station has remained closed and behind the scenes great effort has been made in order get Manchester moving again. I am sure that today’s announcement that the station will reopen will be greatly welcomed by the community of Manchester.
“Officers from British Transport Police will be at the station on Tuesday and will stand alongside members of rail staff who supported emergency services last Monday evening. It will be an opportunity to recognise their courageous efforts as, without a moment’s hesitation they rushed to the arena and provided vital assistance.
“It is important that their role is commended including the efforts and the extraordinary work all the emergency services did in the aftermath of this atrocity.
“BTP officers were amongst the first on the scene and instantly began treating the wounded who lay on the ground. Alongside Greater Manchester Police, they have remained at the Arena for the past seven days, supporting the investigation.
“Following this attack, we all stand united in defiance of this cowardly act of terrorism. The attempt to divide our way of life will never succeed; hatred has no place in our society.
“We will be proud to stand alongside our colleagues in the rail industry as Manchester Victoria is opened up to the public.”
Paul Plummer, chief executive of the Rail Delivery Group, representing train companies and Network Rail, said:
"The professionalism and compassion of railway staff and others working in the vicinity of Manchester Victoria on the night of the Manchester Arena bombing showed the positive side of what people are prepared to do for each other. Colleagues across the railway are proud of staff working in the station, on trains, and in the surrounding area who went above and beyond their duties, rushing to the scene to help and comfort victims and working late into the night to help children and families get home safely in the aftermath of this atrocity. The thoughts of everyone in the railway are with the victims, their loved ones and the people of Manchester."
