Stockport Council's political parties have issued a joint statement on the attack on Heaton Park synagogue this morning (Thursday 2 October).

Armed police were called to the Hebrew Congregation synagogue on Middleton Road at 9.31am.

Witnesses described seeing a car being driven into the public, followed by people being stabbed, in what has since been classed by police as a terror attack.

Two victims have been confirmed dead, and three are seriously injured. Middleton Road remains closed from Crumpsall lane to Wilton Road.

GMP has since confirmed that officers shot the male suspect dead.

The attack, which has since been classed by police as terrorism, took place at the Heaton Park Synagogue on Middleton Road (Image - Google Maps)

Stockport Council said: "We are appalled by the tragic attack outside Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Manchester this morning.

"Our deepest thoughts are with those who have lost their lives, those who have been injured, their families, and with Greater Manchester's Jewish community at this deeply distressing time.

"We are particularly mindful that this incident occurred on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, which will add to the anxiety and grief felt by many.

"We want to thank Greater Manchester Police and the emergency services for their swift response. We know they are working hard to keep people safe in extremely challenging circumstances.

"While the investigation continues, we urge everyone to avoid speculation, and to please follow the latest updates and advice from GMP. We understand that incidents like this can cause real concern.

"At this stage, there is no indication of any wider risk to the public. Over the coming days you may notice an increased police presence, which is there to offer reassurance.

"We would encourage everyone to remain vigilant, and if you see anything that causes concern, please report it directly to GMP.

"Stockport will stand firm with the rest of Greater Manchester to ensure that whilst we remain vigilant, we also remain united in resilience, compassion and community solidarity at this awful time."

The letter was signed by all political group leaders on the council:

• Councillor Mark Roberts, Leader of the Council and Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group
• Councillor Christine Carrigan, Leader of the Opposition and Labour Group
• Councillor Matt Wynne, Leader of the Stockport Community Group
• Councillor Anna Charles-Jones, Leader of the Independent Ratepayers Group
• Councillor Gary Lawson, Leader of the Green Party Group
• Councillor Joe Barratt, Leader of the Bredbury and Woodley Independents Group