Merseyside Police Close Investigation into Southport Knife Attack, Will Not Bring Further Charges

In a statement, Merseyside Police said: "During the course of the criminal investigation into the Southport murders, a number of lines of enquiry were pursued.

"Some of the aspects of the investigation allowed for consideration of charges against those who may have assisted Axel Rudakubana or failed to prevent his crimes.

"Post-trial, the force conducted a comprehensive review of all of the material available and considered it in the light of the case law and statutory offences that may have been applicable.

"As a result, it has been determined that no further charges will be brought at this stage."

Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, Bebe King, six, and Alice da Silva Aguiar, nine, died in the attack.

In addition to eight other children, two adults - dance class leader Leanne Lucas and businessman Jonathan Hayes – were seriously wounded.