A remarkable night in Manchester
Scott looked back on One Love Manchester, broadcast from Old Trafford Cricket Ground across Radio 1, Radio 2 and Radio 5 Live. He had co-hosted the coverage with Jo Whiley and others, and praised Ariana Grande for returning to the city and leading the concert at only 23 years old.
The programme noted that the benefit fund was nearing £10 million and that the television audience had approached 11 million. More important than either figure was the atmosphere: performers, broadcasters and the crowd had created a public show of affection and solidarity after the attack at Manchester Arena.
Evie made it back to the music
Phil Williams spoke about 18-year-old Alex and her boyfriend Morgan, who had been apprehensive about entering another large crowd and waited behind after the concert. He also told Scott about 14-year-old Evie Mills, whom Ariana had visited in hospital.
Evie received day release to attend the concert on crutches with her parents and her friend Millie. Phil had photographed her smiling with a chip, an ordinary and joyful image after an extraordinary ordeal. She was later discharged and returned home to Harrogate. Scott also sent love to Jaden and Emily, who remained at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital.
Lunch competition and a local hero
The mood lightened with Lunch Trumps. Scott presented a steak slice, an iced bun and a Slush Puppie, while callers attempted to defeat him with combinations including a sausage-and-fried-egg sandwich, grated cheese and potato salad.
The show also celebrated Jean Brooks of Hucknall. Tired of motorists speeding along her road, she pointed a hairdryer at passing cars so that drivers would mistake it for a speed camera.
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