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Information are gradually surfacing regarding the background of Jihad Al-Shamie, understood to be a 35-year-old British citizen of Syrian descent.

The individual reportedly came to the UK during his early youth and was granted UK nationality in 2006, at approximately the age of 16.

He resided in the Manchester area of Prestwich, and his family recently issued a statement saying: "We fully distance ourselves from this attack and express our deep shock and sorrow over what has happened.

"Our hearts and prayers are with the those affected and their loved ones, and we hope for their fortitude and comfort."

People in Prestwich described Al-Shamie as a fitness devotee who rarely engaged with his those living nearby.

They said he would sometimes appear in casual attire and at other moments in "traditional" Syrian dress.

What has his relatives state?

On behalf the Al-Shamie family both domestically and internationally, Faraj Al-Shamie commented: "Reports from Manchester concerning the terrorist attack targeting a Jewish synagogue has been a deeply disturbing event to us.

"The Al-Shamie family in the UK and abroad vehemently denounces this heinous act, which affected non-combatant individuals.

"We entirely separate ourselves from this attack and communicate our intense astonishment and sorrow over what has transpired. Our condolences and thoughts are with the victims and their families, and we pray for their resilience and comfort.

"We kindly request that all media outlets honor the family's privacy during this extremely challenging time and refrain from using this tragic event in any context that does not reflect the truth.

"We hope God have mercy on the innocent victims, and we hope for the quick healing of the wounded."

What did neighbors say?

Geoff Haliwell lives close to a residence in Langley Crescent, Prestwich, that is believed to be the Al-Shamie home of the family. It was raided by law enforcement on Thursday.

Mr Haliwell, 72, explained the dwelling used to be on his window-cleaning round and he was acquainted with the wider family "a little", saying they were "really nice people".

"I was astonished, I felt stunned," he remarked, adding that he thought the Al-Shamies moved to the area approximately 15 years ago.

He said the parent had resided there for five or six years but then left the residence, subsequently visiting in a car with license plates from France.

He observed Jihad Al-Shamie would at times wear modern clothing and other times conventional Syrian attire. He also said Al-Shamie would utilize benches to work out.

He added: "I would see him at least a couple of times a weekly, we just exchanged 'greetings'.

"I was unaware of his name.

"He seemed like a straightforward, regular young man, nothing would be noticeable to make you suspect he was different."

• Stay updated: Two men fatally injured in Manchester synagogue attack identified

Another neighbour remembered a baby also residing at the location but could not recall seeing a female living there.

She commented: "We often observed him outside in the yard exercising, lifting weights, push-ups.

"He used to change his outfits.

"One day he would be dressed in the full-length robe, to the floor and the following day denim and sleepwear."

Another resident informed the Daily Telegraph: "I recognised him from the images of the attacker. I noticed his little car, the Kia, because he'd always park it badly near our home.

"I observed him strolling in his pyjamas and slip-on sandals, carrying a bag from stores.

"He appeared muscular and used to keep his fitness equipment in his garage. I'd see them there."

"He did not appear to speak to anybody around here," they added.

Had he been known to officials?

Al-Shamie's name has not appeared in initial searches of police and intelligence agency databases, and he is not believed to have been under current investigation.

Further checks are in progress to see if he is listed in any records of previous probes.

It has been mentioned Al-Shamie used to work as a tutor educating in the English language and computer programming, and his parent is a surgeon.

The interior minister Shabana Mahmood stated she was "taken aback" by the name of the assailant.

Commenting on LBC, Ms Mahmood was asked about the individual's name, Jihad Al-Shamie, which host Nick Ferrari translated as "conflict related to Syria".

She said: "It was unexpected to discover that designation myself.

"In fact, as a Muslim, I have not encountered someone being called Jihad, but it is the title that he was born with - that has always been his identity."