'People shouldn't be scared to go to synagogue' - Manchester attack victim speaks out

A man injured in the Manchester terrorist attack has spoken for the first time about his return to the Heaten Park synagogue.

Yoni Finlay was among those barricading the doors to stop the attacker, Jihad al Shamie, from getting inside the synagogue earlier this month.

Al Shamie was shot and killed by police, but one of their bullets came through the synagogue door - striking Mr Finlay and killing Adrian Daulby, one of two men who lost their lives.

Mr Finlay was in surgery for seven hours on the day of the attack.

Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation synagogue. Pic: PA
Image: Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation synagogue. Pic: PA

Today he told Sky News about his return to the scene.

"It was easier than I thought because of the love and support. It's difficult though because obviously I know I'm lucky, we didn't all make it, and those are the real heroes.

"It was bad - but it could have been worse - I'm here."

More on Manchester Synagogue Attack

However, he also spoke about the wider effect on the synagogue community.

"It's scary when people are going to the synagogue and just want to go about their daily lives and do their prayers.

"We shouldn't be scared to go to synagogue."

King Charles meets members of the community, during his visit to Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue. Pic: PA
Image: King Charles meets members of the community, during his visit to Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue. Pic: PA

Mr Finlay was among those who met King Charles at the synagogue in Crumpsall today.

The monarch spent time paying his respects at the outside memorial area next to the synagogue, where flowers and messages have been left.

He also spoke to those affected by the attack.

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Mr Finlay said: "A lot of people said that it (the terror attack) was a shock, but it wasn't a surprise what happened to our people.

"So, the fact that the King came and showed his support, showed his care, and he took a lot time as well, meant a lot."

'The best and worst of humanity'

Mr Finlay said he had been overwhelmed by well wishes from people both within and outside the synagogue.

He said he attended a service last week where there were well over 1,000 people "from all walks of the community" which he described as "absolutely incredible".

"You see the love, and you see the care - and that helps. We are a very special community.

"Three weeks ago I saw the worst of humanity, now I am seeing the very best."