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Police chief thanks press for ‘respectful’ terror attack coverage

Ian HopkinsA police chief has thanked both the regional and national press for its “respectful” reporting of the Manchester terror attack.

Greater Manchester Police Chief Constable Ian Hopkins has applauded the work of the media in the aftermath of the atrocity, in which 22 people were killed.

In a letter to the Society of Editors’ deputy executive director Ian Murray this week, Chief Const Hopkins said that he had been grateful for the support of both the national and regional media.

The Manchester Evening News has been widely praised for its coverage of the attack and its aftermath, as well as its campaign which has raised millions of pounds for those injured and the families of the victims.

In his letter, Chief Const Hopkins wrote: “Since the Manchester Arena attack took place on Monday 22 May we have been endeavouring to share as much information as possible to assist accurate media reporting. Clearly this has been a difficult time and the nature of the fast moving investigation has created some challenges.

“As well as managing a fast-moving investigation, we have also been supporting the victims’ families and those affected by the horrific incident.

“I have been grateful for the support from the media who have on the whole been respectful and have taken note of the requests that we have made on behalf of the families.”

Chief Const Hopkins, who has served in the role for Manchester since 2015, went on to say that the force wished to continue to work effectively with the media.

He added: “We value our relationships with the local and national media and I would be grateful if you could share my thanks with your members.”

The SoE has made the letter available to its members via the members’ section of its website.