A SERVING officer at Cheshire Constabulary was killed when a bomb exploded at the Manchester Arena on Monday.

It is understood a small memorial service was held at the force's HQ in Winsford today, Wednesday, in memory of the female officer who is believed to have been based at Ellesmere Port. 

National newspapers have reported how her husband remains in a critical condition in hospital while the couple's children were also injured.

Police have so far confirmed 22 people were killed in the attack in the heart of Manchester at 10.30pm including the officer who was off-duty at the time.

The suspected suicide bomber has since been named as 22-year-old Salman Abedi from Manchester.

Four people have been arrested as the investigation continues. 

Chief constable Ian Hopkins, said: “You will be aware that the level of activity in this investigation is intense and is continuing at pace. 

"We made three arrests in connection with the attacks overnight and this afternoon we entered an address in Manchester city centre using a controlled explosion. 

"Officers are currently at the scene but in order to do this safely we briefly had to close a nearby mainline railway, which has now been reopened. 

"Those extensive searches will now continue.

“In total we currently have four people in custody."

Chief constable for Cheshire Constabulary Simon Byrne has released more information about how the force will continue to police the county in the coming days and weeks.