Tributes issued by schools of Elsie-Dot Stancombe, Bebe King and Alice da Silva Aguiar
The Head Teachers of Elsie-Dot Stancombe, Bebe King and Alice da Silva Aguiar have each issued heartfelt tributes to their pupils.
Jennifer Septhon, Head Teacher of Farnborough Road Infants School directly addressed Elsie-Dot.
She said: "It was a real privilege to have known Elsie and be a part of her Farnborough Road Infant School journey over the last 4 years.
"From her nursery days being carried on Dad’s shoulders into the playground, she was a girl with a super, beaming smile, someone who loved life, school and her friends.
"Elsie was such a determined young lady who loved to please, she loved performing, singing, dancing and being on the stage.
"Elsie was adored by her friends and known by everyone in school due to the sparkle in her eyes, her infectious energy, caring nature and charismatic personality.
"It’s difficult to put into words how amazing Elsie was and the impact she had on those around her.
"We miss you, Elsie. You were one of a kind.
"You will live forever in the hearts of our Farnborough family.
"Our thoughts are with all the families who have been affected by this tragic event.
"As a school, we will continue to support our children and families as we try to navigate these most difficult of times together."
Addressing the media directly Ms Sephton wrote: "We ask that the media respect our privacy, for our families and our school, as we continue to grieve as a community."
*********
Natasha Sandland, Head Teacher of Marshside Primary, said: "Bebe was an amazing young lady full of giggles and love. She brightened up the darkest days with her beautiful toothless smile.
"We grieve her loss every single day and will remember her with nothing but happy and fun memories.
"We will never associate her loss with this unthinkable act.
"Our focus will remain supporting Bebe’s family and her friends, our staff and our community who have been left numb by this tragic incident.
"We send our love to all those who have been affected by what happened and we firmly reiterate the need to protect and respect the privacy of all families involved at this difficult time.
"As a school community we continue to grieving together as we stand with others in Southport."
*********
Jinnie Payne, Head Teacher at Churchtown Primary, said: "Alice, a beloved pupil of Churchtown Primary School, was joy embodied. Her artistic flair and passion for dance brought happiness to everyone who knew her.
“Alice, Bebe and Elsie’s absence leave a void that cannot be filled, but their memory will remain a torch of light, love, and inspiration for us all.
“To all the victims and their families and friends, we extend our deepest sympathy and unwavering support. As a school, we are committed to wrapping our arms around you and the entire community as we walk this path of grief and recovery together.
“In this time of pain, we find hope in the unity of our community. The resilience, compassion, and strength we have witnessed remind us that love always prevails over hate. Let us continue to lean on one another, not just to heal but to honour Alice, Bebe, and Elsie by building a future grounded in kindness and understanding.
“This is not the end of their story. It is the beginning of a shared commitment to a better world, one where love binds us, hope drives us, and unity defines us.
“Our hearts are broken, but we’re finding strength in healing together.”
*********
Not only will this be incredibly upsetting time for our communities but you may feel shocked and angry. We ask you to please give consideration before you post anything to social media if you are sharing your thoughts.
Support is on offer should the coming days cause you any distress or upset. If you have been affected by what you hear, you can find a range of support at www.sefton.gov.uk/southporttogether.
There is a wealth of guidance on mental health support which provides information on how to access to a wide range of services in Sefton, including Crisis Support, Specialist Services including bereavement, Support for Men, Support for Women and Someone to Speak to.
Please use this support and we again ask you to remain understanding, respectful and supportive of everyone involved at this incredibly difficult time.