The Manchester bomb: 20 years on
We look back at Manchester's recovery from the IRA bomb 20 years ago.
20 years ago today in 1996, a truck was parked on Corporation Street outside Marks and Spencer in Manchester City centre. Inside it was a 3300lb bomb, the biggest to be detonated in Britain since World War II. The occupants of the truck had already made their escape in a getaway vehicle.
Although no lives were lost, thousands of businesses were affected, and livelihoods destroyed. It cost the economy ÂŁ700 million in damage, which today would be equal to ÂŁ1.2 billion.
Five days later, the IRA sent out a statement taking responsibility for the Manchester bomb.
Unfortunately, the perpetrators were never found, making it impossible to bring the bombers to justice.
WATCH: Our Chief Reporter Michelle Livesey back at the scene 20 years on with Councillor Pat Karney:
In the face of it all, a red pillar box remained standing outside M&S, remarkably intact after the powerful bomb. For many people, that red post box has become a symbol of defiance towards the attackers. It was taken out during restoration efforts, but later restored to its original position, with a commemorative plaque installed, as a memorial of the attacks.
Gallery: Pictures from the 1996 bombing