Plans have been announced as Southport prepares to mark two years on from the attack that scarred many in the town. July 29, 2024, is a day many will never forget, a day three young girls were taken from their friends and families.
The attack, which unfolded on Hart Street shortly before midday, saw Bebe King, six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, and Alice da Silva Aguiar, nine, lose their lives, prompting an outpouring of tributes, flowers and emotion throughout the town.
Alongside the three girls who were killed, eight others were injured, along with two adults, while the rest of the children in the room, who had been enjoying a Taylor Swift-themed workshop, were psychologically scarred.
Council outlines plans for anniversary
Two years on, Sefton Council has penned an open letter outlining how the town plans to recognise the tragedy that took place. The letter said: "As we approach July 29th, 2026, our thoughts remain with the families of Alice, Bebe & Elsie, everyone injured physically and psychologically, their families and their loved ones and all those whose lives were changed that day."
"We know this will be an incredibly difficult time and many of you will be wondering how best to mark the date. Your compassion and support continues to be a source of comfort to all affected and unwavering acts of kindness have meant more than words can express. This period is incredibly difficult for everyone whose lives were affected by the events of the day, including those who rushed to support and our emergency responders."
"They remain always in our thoughts. It is the solidarity you continue to show as a community which will again shine bright in the coming weeks and we want everyone to know there has been an incredible amount of consideration, thought and planning given to how we all mark the date of July 29th going forward."
Three-minute silence and no floral tributes
The council has asked there be no floral tributes laid, particularly at either Hart Street or at school settings. People are instead encouraged to donate to local causes across Southport in lieu of flowers.
A three-minute silence will also be held across Southport at 3pm on Wednesday, July 29, to remember everyone affected.
The letter continued: "Our colleagues have been working with faith and community leaders to once again identify local spaces where you can go, within your own neighbourhoods, to say a prayer, light a candle, speak to someone or spend a quiet moment reflecting in whatever way feels right for you."
"We fully understand that many of us still need to grieve and to acknowledge the day and there is no right or wrong way to do this."
"Whether you choose to attend a reflective space, observe the silence, spend time with loved ones, or simply take a quiet moment to yourself, we encourage everyone to do whatever feels most appropriate to you."
Flags will also be lowered to half-mast on all public buildings in Sefton. As always, support remains available to anyone affected. Professionals will be available at the various local reflective spaces to offer help and guidance to anyone who may need it.
