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 £700 million in damage, which today would be equal to £1.2 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