WEST Midlands Police and Crime commissioner David Jamieson has urged people to be vigilant in the wake of the Manchester bombing.

The bombing, at a pop concert by American singer Ariana Grande at the Manchester Arena, took place last night (Monday) at around 10.35pm.

The death toll currently stands at 22, with children among those who have lost their lives.

Mt Jamieson said: "The attack on Manchester was a vicious and truly dreadful attack on young people. It targeted people enjoying the simple pleasure of a music concert.

"My thoughts are with the people of Manchester in this difficult period.

"I would like to pay tribute to the emergency services who reacted rapidly and showed true dedication.

"I would urge people to be vigilant but to go about their daily lives as normal.

"If you see anything suspicious please report it to the police on 0800 789 321."

Meanwhile and civic leaders from across the region have been expressing their horror at the bombing in Manchester last night.

Stourbridge’s Conservative candidate and small business minister Margot James said: “Awoke to the terrible news from Manchester, my deepest condolences to the victims, their families and the whole great city of Manchester.”

Her Labour opposite number in Stourbidge, Cllr Pete Lowe, sent a message via Twitter to the victims which said: “Love and thoughts! No words.”

Conservative candidate for Bromsgrove MP Sajid Javid, secretary of state for communities and local government, said: “Appalling, barbaric attack. Thoughts with those killed and injured, their families and admiration for our brave emergency services.”

Bromsgrove Liberal Democrat candidate Neil Lewis added: "Terrible news. Our thoughts and our prayers are with those caught up in this dreadful attack."

Dudley South’s former MP and Tory election candidate Mike Wood said: “Heartbreaking reports coming out of Manchester. Thoughts and prayers tonight are with all of those affected.”

Labour's Dudley South candidate, Natasha Millward, said: "Shocked with the terrible news. My thoughts are with the victims, their families, the emergency services and those who have offered help."

While James Morris, the Conservative candidate for Halesowen and Rowley Regis, said: “Thoughts are with all those affected by the terrible attack in Manchester.”

UKIP West Midlands MEP James Carver said: "Such terrible news. A truly wicked act. My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected, and their loved ones."

UKIP MEP, Cllr Bill Etheridge said: “Awful news about the explosion in Manchester . No words can express the sadness and concern properly.”

While his Conservative opponent for the Dudley North seat in the general election, Cllr Les Jones, added: “Just picked up news of the Manchester explosion. Horrific incident. Our thoughts must be with those affected, victims, family and friends.”

The newly-elected Midlands Metro Mayor Andy Street said: “Deeply shocked at the news from Manchester. We must all be particularly vigilant today as we demonstrate solidarity and defiance.”

All campaigning for the general election has been suspended in the aftermath of the Manchester attack, which is believed to have been carried out by a lone individual who died in the explosion.