The singer released the statement on social media this evening. DPA / PA Images DPA / PA Images / PA Images

POPSTAR ARIANA GRANDE has said she will return to Manchester to play a benefit concert for the victims and families of Monday’s terrorist attack.

The attack took place at the end of a concert by the 23-year-old singer at the Manchester Arena. It left 22 people dead and at least 59 people injured.

In a post published social media this evening, Grande said she wants to “extend my hand, heart and everything I can possibly give” to the victims of the attack and their loved ones.

Grande says the response to the violence must be to “come closer together”, adding that: “We will not quit or operate in fear.”

Here is her statement in full:

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The suicide bomber who carried out the attack on the mostly young fans at Grande’s concert has been identified as 22-year-old British man Salman Ramadan Abedi.

Read: ‘He would light up the darkest room’: More victims of the Manchester attack have been named >

Read: Politicians and musicians express shock and condolences at Manchester attack >

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