Southport stabbings latest updates: Police van is set on fire (2024)

The Taylor Swift UK & EU Facebook Group started the fundraiser in the aftermath of the attack and says it is working with Alder Hey Children’s Hospital to help raise money for the families affected by the tragedy in Southport.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said anyone involved in the disorder in Southport will 'feel the full force of the law'.

He added: 'Those who have hijacked the vigil for the victims with violence and thuggery have insulted the community as it grieves.'

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said it was 'appalling' police officers in

Southport were facing attacks from 'thugs on the streets who have no respect

for a grieving community', adding: 'It's a total disgrace.'

A 32-year-old man was also arrested while carrying a flick knife just yards away from a vigil being held for the three girls stabbed to death.

Merseyside Police said the man from Standish had been arrested on suspicion of possession of a bladed article and taken into custody.

'We know too well the devastating impact knife crime can have for victims, their families and friends, and those who carry them,' said Detective Inspector Gavin Mulcahy.

'This week has seen an unspeakable tragedy unfold in Southport, and this incident occurred a short distance from where a vigil had been happening where the community was paying their respects to all those affected.'

Riot police have cleared the area directly outside the mosque and are standing guard with their batons raised.

Officers put on helmets and riot gear after stones and bottles were launched at them.

Masked youths were scouring the ground for bricks littering the floor to throw at the officers, who are dressed in riot gear.

Heavy thuds were heard as the vans took hits and police raised their shields against incoming missiles.

As thousands of mourners attended an emotional vigil in Southport on Tuesday night, protests broke out on the streets surrounding Hart Street, where the attack took place.

Furious demonstrators tore down garden walls to use as missiles to pelt at police, with wheelie bins also thrown during the mayhem.

A police van was set on fire by protesters. Angry mobs chanted 'Stop the boats' and kicked out at police vans sent to restore order.

Some threw smoke bombs, with men wearing caps and shorts charging at outnumbered police.

Scores of riot vans and patrol cars raced to the scene as a police helicopter hovered overhead as the violence spread out of control.

Huge crowds of men, many masked and wearing hoodies, were seen clashing with police - as stones, bottles, bricks and fireworks were launched.

Demonstrators could be heard shouting 'No surrender' and 'English till I die'.

Several people carried placards with slogans about stopping the boats.

One read: 'Stop the boats! Send them back! Fight for our kids! Let's stand together!

Mersyside Police have condemned the 'sickening' violence which has broken out amid speculation over the identity of the suspect who was arrested in connection with the savage attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class.

The violence appears to have been fuelled by false claims that the suspect was an asylum seeker who had arrived in the UK by boat which have spread online.

Merseyside Police said: 'We would urge people not to speculate on details of the incident while the investigation is ongoing.'

The force confirmed that a large group of protesters - believed to be supporters of the English Defence League – began to launch items towards a local mosque on St Luke’s Road in Southport at around 7.45pm.

One officer has suffered a suspected broken nose and police vehicles have been damaged and set on fire.

It comes after the three girls stabbed to death were today named by police as six-year-old Bebe King, seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe and nine-year-old Alice Dasilva Aguiar.

Assistant Chief Constable Alex Goss says: 'There has been much speculation and hypothesis around the status of a 17-year-old male who is currently in police custody, and some individuals are using this to bring violence and disorder to our streets.

'We have already said that the person arrested was born in the UK and speculation helps nobody at this time.

'It is sickening to see this happening within a community that has been devastated by the tragic loss of three young lives.'

A number of police officers have suffered what appeared to be minor injuries in chaotic scenes outside the mosque in Southport.

Stones, bottles and bricks have been thrown, and police riot vans have been attacked.

According to Sky News, firecrackers could be heard going off, along with multiple police sirens sounding.

Hundreds of youths and men and a large police presence remain on the streets surrounding Hart Street, where the attack took place.

The violence appears to have been fuelled by false claims that the suspect was an asylum seeker who had arrived in the UK by boat which have spread online.

A 17-year-old boy, originally from Cardiff but from the nearby village of Banks, remains in custody accused of murder and attempted murder.

Earlier today, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said social media companies "need to take some responsibility" for speculation.

Huge crowds chanting 'English till I die' have clashed with police outside a mosque in Southport near to where three girls were killed in a horrific knife rampage on Monday.

Mersyside Police have condemned the 'sickening' violence which has broken out amid speculation over the identity of the suspect who was arrested in connection with the savage attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class.

The ugly scenes, which has seen a police van set on fire outside a mosque, comes as policeissued a warning after an 'incorrect' name for the alleged attacker was widely circulated online.

In a House of Commons statement, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper told MPs: 'It's difficult to comprehend or to put into words the horror of what happened. These were young children, dancing to Taylor Swift and celebrating the start of the school holidays.

'What should have been a joyful start to the summer turned into an unspeakable tragedy.

'It is extremely important that people don't spread damaging misinformation. False information has already been extensively shared in the last 24 hours.

'Those who do this for their own purposes risk undermining a crucial criminal investigation, and I ask everyone to show some respect for the community in Southport and for families who are grieving and in trauma.

'In these dark and difficult moments, the police must be able to get on with their work, and communities must be given the time and space to grieve and heal without outside voices seeking to use events to stir up division or advance their own views.

'We do need to recognise there are things that are taking place on social media that go against their terms and conditions and their commitments as well and they need to take some responsibility for that.'

Hundreds of people gathered at a vigil for the Southport attack victims tonight.

Jane Burns, the mayor of Sefton, told the crowd: 'I hope all of you here find some comfort from something, even if it's someone you meet here today, a stranger.

'Reach out and help. Be kind. Let's allow them families to grieve the way they wish to grieve. I ask for calm and respect at this time.'

A vigil is to be held tonight to remember the victims of the Southport stabbing attack and show support to all those impacted by the tragedy.

Three children have died, eight others injured and two adults were also wounded as they 'bravely' tried to intervene.

The child victims have today been named as six-year-old Bebe King, seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe and nine-year-old Alice Dasilva Aguiar.

Yoga instructor Leanne Lucas, who was leading the dance class with colleague Heidi Barlow, was also among those injured and is in hospital.

They were Bebe King, six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven and Alice Aguiar, aged nine.

A national knife crime charity has said yesterday's attack serves as a 'stark reminder of the urgent need to address the root causes of violence' and tackle knife crime.

The Ben Kinsells Trust was set up by the family of Ben Kinsella - who was stabbed to death in 2008.

The charity's spokesperson said: 'As an organisation set up by a family who lost a son and brother to knife crime, the Ben Kinsella Trust is acutely aware of the devastating impact that knife crime has on the lives it touches.'

In 2010, the organisation successfully lobbied the government to raise the mandatory life sentence for knife-related murder from 15 to 25 years.

Knife crime in England and Wales increased by 4% in 12 months to March 2024, according to figures by the Office for National Statistics. But overall knife-enabled crime is still 3% lower than March 2020.

The teenager held over the Southport stabbings was an 'introvert' who lived in a nearby village with his 'nice family', who had moved to the UK from Rwanda.

The 17-year-old boy was born in Cardiff after his family moved from the African nation- then moved north to Merseyside about ten years ago.

He remains in custody accused of murder and attempted murder and is being questioned following the incident.

Merseyside Policesaid today that a third girl, aged nine, had died in the early hours of Tuesday morning. The two girls who died yesterday were aged six and seven, a spokesperson added.

Eight other children were injured with five of them - aged between six and 11 - in a critical condition alongside two female adults who 'bravely tried to protect them'.

The suspect's former neighbours said they were 'shocked' and 'saddened' to learn the teenager had been arrested over the horror knife attack as he comes from such a 'nice family'.

Read more:

Mr Verite has been called a 'hero' after he tackled the knifeman at the centre of the Southport stabbings.

The 25-year-old rushed headlong into the carnage after coming to the aid of a screaming woman - who then demanded: 'Forget about me, there's a fella in there stabbing kids'.

Mr Verite said he sprinted into the building where the mayhem was taking place and saw children and adults covered in blood - before then 'lockingeyes' with the knifeman at the top of the stairs.

The young father, who is also a personal trainer, then charged at the attacker, wrestling with him before later carrying stabbed girls away from the scene.

'I look up and there's this guy with a knife,' he told Sky News.'I just wanted to hurt him so bad. But I was scared for myself and I wanted to help people.'

Window cleaner Joel Verite described hearing a woman screaming 'he's stabbing kids' as he drove near the dance studio in Hart Street, Southport.

Recounting the scene to Sky News, he said: 'We start running towards this place where she's talking about.

'As I'm running towards the door, there's a car, there's a woman in the car, and she's screaming for me to come over.

'She's got a child in the passenger seat, and then in the back there's like four or five more kids, covered in blood.

'It was like a scene you'd see on a disaster film, honestly.

Mr Verite said he carried a girl out of the car's front passenger seat to get her to safety.

The Prime Minister has visited Southport after a knife attack left three little girls dead and five more in hospital fighting for their lives.

Sir Keir Starmer said the horrific attack in Southport 'touches a nerve' with the whole country as helaid a floral tribute at the scene alongside a note telling the victim's families 'the nation's thoughts are with you', as he visited Hart Street, Merseyside.

He went on to meet the emergency service workers who responded to the horrific tragedy praising the 'incredible' paramedics, firefighters and police officers for 'saving lives'.

Read more:

Jinnie Payne, headteacher of Churchtown Primary School, has paid tribute to Southport stabbing victims Alice Da Silva Aguiar and Bebe King.

'It is with great sadness that we heard the tragic news about the three children who died following yesterday's atrocity, including Alice Da Silva Aguiar, a Year 4 pupil at Churchtown, and Bebe King (pictured), a former pupil,' Ms Payne said.

'Our immediate thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the families and friends of both Alice and Bebe during this impossibly difficult time.

'We know that a number of other children from Churchtown were also involved in the attack, along with much-loved colleagues.

'We extend our heartfelt wishes to all those families affected by this horrific incident, including those currently in hospital or continuing to receive treatment. We sincerely hope for their swift and full recovery.'

Downing Street has urged people to 'listen to the police' and said it is 'unhelpful' to speculate on the motive.

Asked whether the Prime Minister would appeal for calm if there were to be a potential far-right rally in Southport, as some reports suggest, his official spokesman said: 'Of course, people should listen the police, they should not do anything that is going to make the police's job harder to manage the situation, to conduct their investigations.

Seven children were taken to Alder Hey hospital following the stabbing in Southport, the NHS trust said.

'We can confirm that seven children were brought to Alder Hey following the heartbreaking incident in Southport yesterday,' Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust said in a statement posted on X, formerly Twitter.

'Sadly, despite all our efforts one child has since died. The remaining children are continuing to receive treatment with two remaining in critical care but currently in a stable condition.

'The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Alder Hey remain with the children, young people and their families involved in and all those affected by yesterday's incident.

'We will continue to provide them with all the support we can at this devastating time.'

Portuguese PM Luis Montenegro issued a statement following the death of three children, including nine-year-old Alice Dasilva Aguiar, in a knife attack in Southport.

Mr Montenegro said on X: 'It is with deep sadness that I received the news on the attack that took place yesterday in Southport in the United Kingdom, for which I have no words to describe.

'On my behalf and that of the Portuguese government I express heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and to the British government and people.'

A nursery group has urged parents not to hold the door open for others at drop-off and pick-up following an attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class.

Childbase Partnership, which looks after 6,000 children in 44 day nurseries across England, has sent out a 'high priority' email to parents about security measures after three children died in the knife attack in Southport.

An 'alert' was issued to all nurseries in the group on Tuesday morning to reassure parents that the settings were reviewing established security procedures which staff must follow to meet 'a variety of threats'.

Lorna Wigley, quality and health and safety director of Childbase Partnership, called on parents to refrain from holding the door open for others at nursery and to report any concerns to staff 'immediately'.

Starmer was heckled again as he departed the scene of yesterday's tragedy after laying a wreath for victims.

As the Prime Minister walked close by, a man said: 'Here's your photo opportunity.'

As his car left, another shouted: 'How many more children? Our kids are dead and you're leaving already?'

A third man shouted 'get the truth out!' while the Chief Constable was asked why the alleged attacker had not been named, and if he was on a 'watch list'.

The Prime Minister said the attack in Southport 'touches a nerve' with the whole country, but added it was 'not the time for politics'.

He said:

Asked about his “mission” to crack down on knife crime, Sir Keir said:

Speaking to media during his visit to Southport, Sir Keir Starmer said:

Sir Keir Starmer was shouted at by members of the public as he placed his own floral tribute among hundreds of others at the police cordon on Hart Street, Southport.

The brief visit, lasting barely two minutes, was marred by hostile shouts from some watching members of the public.

The Prime Minister, visiting the scene after speaking to media earlier, laid a wreath of pink and white flowers watched by dozens of members of the public, and tens more TV crews, reporters and photographers.

He laid down his wreath and stood momentarily in silence, but more than one person shouted: 'How many more Starmer? When are you going to do something?'

The Prime Minister, accompanied by Serena Kennedy, Chief Constable of Merseyside Police, was then ushered back to his waiting car by his security detail, which then left in convoy.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has visited Southport and thanked emergency service workers who responded to the knife attack.

He told them:

The Prime Minister's visit comes after Home Secretary Yvette Cooper met police chiefs in the town and laid her own flowers at the police cordon.

Merseysde Police have released the names of three girls killed in the Southport knife attack after a armed intruder stormed a Taylor Swift-themed dance class on Monday morning.

Here's all we know about the victims:

Alice was the first victim to be named this afternoon after she was confirmed as the third death following the knife attack.

Her mother Alexandra Aguiar is understood to be originally from Caracas in Venezuela and her dad David Aguiar is from the Portuguese island of Madeira.

In a statement released through Merseyside Police, her family said: 'Keep smiling and dancing like you love to do our Princess, like we said before to you, you’re always our princess and no one would change that. Love from Your Hero Daddy and Mummy.'

Bebe, six, was pronounced dead shortly after the attack, with heartbreaking photographs show her cuddling her father, Ben King.

She attended Churchtown Primary School in Southport, MailOnline understands.

In a statement released through Merseyside Police, her family said: 'No words can describe the devastation that has hit our family as we try to deal with the loss of our little girl Bebe.'

Elsie, seven, was also declared dead shortly after the attack on Monday.

Her family have so far not released a statement through Merseyside Police but the force has issued her picture.

by James Fielding and James Tozer

A six-year-old child victim stabbed to death by a hooded knifeman who stormed a summer holiday workshop and started attacking children has been pictured.

Bebe King, six, was pronounced dead shortly after the unthinkable attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport on Monday.

Heartbreaking photographs show her cuddling her father Ben King who along with her mother was being consoled by relatives today.

Three girls killed in the stabbing in Southport have been named by Merseyside Police as six-year-old Bebe King (centre), seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe (right) and Alice Dasilva Aguiar (left), nine.

In a tribute issued through Merseyside Police, Bebe King’s family said:

And the family of Alice Aguiar said:

NHS staff have left flowers and toys at the police cordon in Southport.

Three women in uniform were pictured arriving at the scene with flowers which now fill the road near the scene of the attack.

Earlier firefighters left their own tribute at the cordon.

A Portuguese politician has confirmed one of the victims of the Southport knife attack is a national.

Alice Aguiar was named as the first girl killed by a knifeman during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in the Merseyside town.

Speaking to a Portuguese TV channel, government minister Jose Cesario said:

A Southport resident has said learning of the knife attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class made her 'feel sck'.

She was one of a number of neighbours to speak to Sky News at the police cordon this afternoon.

A vigil will be held in Southport on Tuesday evening.

Sefton Council said it was supporting the event, which will be held outside the Atkinson arts venue on Lord Street at 6pm.

Councillor Marion Atkinson, leader of Sefton Council, said:

A book of remembrance is available for people to sign at the Atkinson, in Southport, and one is being set up at Bootle Town Hall, a council spokesman said.

A JustGiving page set up by Taylor Swift fans in the wake of the Southport knife attack has raised over £100,000 in less than 24 hours.

The attack took place at a children's event themed on US singer Taylor Swift, whose fans have raised donations via their Swifties for Southport online fundraiser.

Cristina Jones, from Trowbridge in Wiltshire and Holly Goldring from Tunbridge Wells in Kent, started the JustGiving page to ease the 'financial burden' on the families involved.

She said:

Swift herself said she is 'completely in shock' as she posted an emotional message following the attack.

We have reported on a lot of developments surrounding the Southport knife attack on Monday as more details continue to emerge.

Merseyside Police earlier confirmed a third child had been killed as a result of her injuries and one of the victims has been named by devastated loved ones.

Here's a quick summary of what you need to know this afternoon:

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said she couldn't imagine the 'depth of pain and suffering' felt by the families affected by the stabbings in Southport.

Addressing MPs in the Commons, she said:

by Gerard Couzens, Elizabeth Haigh and Iwan Stone

Portuguese girl Alice Aguiar was today named as one of three victims killed by a knifeman in Southport.

Portuguese Foreign Ministry sources confirmed today a Portuguese girl had died

Alice's mum Alexandra Aguiar is understood to hail originally from Caracas in Venezuela but lived in Madeira along with Alice's father David, before the pair moved to the UK.

Relative Carina Aguiar, a hotel worker who lives in Camara de Lobos in Madeira, posted a link on her social media to news Merseyside Police had confirmed a third child had died following the attack and wrote tear emoticons beside it.

Earlier she posted a photo of a black ribbon on her Facebook alongside Alice's name after writing in an emotional tribute: 'Princess Alice. In this moment of great pain my soul hurts, my body hurts, my mind hurts. I have a lump in my throat.

'You were just an innocent child, a happy smiley girl with a bright life ahead of you which a despicable human being took away from you, without pity, for no reason.

'Look after your mum and dad who are suffering, who are desolate and broken. Fly high our little star. I love you.'

by Gerard Couzens, Elizabeth Haigh and Iwan Stone

A child killed in the horror Southport stabbing attack was today named as Alice Aguiar, as her devastated loved ones said their princess had been taken by a 'despicable human being.'

Friends and family paid tribute to the youngster today after it emerged the nine-year-old had died in hospital of her injuries.

A crew from Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service arrived at the scene in Southport to pay tribute.

About a dozen firefighters walked together to the cordon on Hart Street and laid flowers, with a message to say they were 'thinking of everyone involved'.

These latest photographs show emotions on full display in Southport as residents mourn the death of a third victim as police confirm a nine-year-old girl was killed.

Her death follows the killings of two girls on Monday, aged six and seven, after a knifeman attacked a Taylor Swift-themed dance class.

Residents have visited a police cordon that remains in place at the scene of the attack.

A Taylor Swift fan whose fundraiser for the families and victims of the Southport attack has raised more than £70,000 hopes to relieve them of any 'financial burden' while they grieve.

Cristina Jones, from Trowbridge in Wiltshire, started a JustGiving page which has received donations from fans worldwide via the Alder Hay Children's Charity which supports the hospital where some of the victims are being treated.

Speaking to the PA news agency, Ms Jones said:

Ms Jones said it was 'really lovely' to see US singer Swift share a statement on Instagram paying tribute to the victims, adding: 'She's bringing it to attention and letting the families know she's well aware and is thinking of them.'

by Iwan Stone and Tom Bedford

The teenager held over the Southport stabbings was an 'introvert' who lived in a nearby village with his 'nice family', who had moved to the UK from Rwanda.

The 17-year-old boy was born in Cardiff after his family moved from the African nation - then moved north to Merseyside about ten years ago.

He remains in custody accused of murder and attempted murder and is being questioned following the incident.

by Iwan Stone

A nine-year-old girl has become the third child to die after the Southport stabbing attack at a Taylor Swift-themed holiday dance class.

The latest tragedy comes a day after a knife rampage that had already left two girls - aged just six and seven - dead.

The latest child - aged nine - died in the early hours of Tuesday morning, Merseyside Police confirmed.

This the moment a police officer laid down floral tributes from residents as large amounts of flowers and toys are left at the scene to remember children stabbed to death in Southport.

Merseyside Police have confirmed the death of a third child while five remain in a critical condition as well as two adults.

Sir Keir Starmer opened Cabinet by acknowledging the 'truly horrific' event in Southport.

The Prime Minister’s official spokesman said:

Ms Cooper has said the Prime Minister is on a “moral mission” to address knife crime across the country.

When asked what the Government will do to address knife crime and prevent future attacks, Ms Cooper told reporters in Southport:

Yvette Cooper has declared police must 'pursue every single avenue' after three children died in a mass stabbing in Southport.

Merseyside Police previously said the attack on Hart Street, which also left five other children and two adults in a critical condition, was not being treated as terror-related.

Asked why, the Home Secretary said:

Merseyside Police have confirmed a third child has died following the knife attack in Southport yesterday.

Five children remain in a critical condition along with two adults.

Here's a quick summary of the force's latest statement:

A name for the alleged Southport knifeman which has been circulated on social media is “incorrect”, Merseyside Police said.

A police statement said:

The force added:

A third girl has died from her injuries in the knife attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport, Merseyside Police said.

A police statement said:

A nine-year-old girl has become the third child to die after the Southport stabbings, Merseyside Police said.

Good afternoon, if you're just joining us, we have been providing live updates of the Southport knife attack in which two children were killed and six left in a critical condition as well as two adults

We have yet to receive an update on the conditions of those seriously injured. Police are continuing to question a 17-year-old boy on suspicion of murder and attempted murder.

Here's the key takeaways from this morning:

Several businesses in Southport have decided not to open today as a show of respect to the victims of yesterday's knife attack.

Many residents left flowers and tributes next to the police cordon on their way to work on Tuesday.

A vigil is taking place in the town at 6pm.

A message on the flowers left by Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said:

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has said the whole country is standing with Southport after she visited the town to speak to police chiefs and leave a tribute.

After placing flowers next to the police cordon, Ms Cooper spoke to journalists from the Liverpool Echo.

She said:

Nursery staff laid flowers and a heart-shaped artwork, decorated with children’s handprints at the cordon on Hart Street.

A message on the artwork said:

People, including children, continued to arrive throughout the morning to lay tributes.

Some were in tears as they walked away.

We can also bring you footage of Southport MP Patrick Hurley who spoke at the police cordon earlier today.

The Labour politician said the town is in mourning and in shock today following the 'uniquely horrific' knife attack yesterday.

We can now show you footage of Yvette Cooper laying flowers in Southport as she spoke to community leaders and first responders following yesterday's knife attack.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has laid flowers at the police cordon on Hart Street in Southport.

Ms Cooper, Southport MP Patrick Hurley, Merseyside Police Chief Constable Serena Kennedy, Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service’s Chief Fire Officer Phil Garrigan and Merseyside police and crime commissioner Emily Spurrell walked to the cordon together, each holding a bouquet of flowers.

The Home Secretary stood for a few moments looking at the tributes before laying her flowers and reading some of the messages left by others.

She and Mr Hurley hugged. Ms Cooper is understood to have met with first responders in the town earlier.

by Mark Duell

Taylor Swift posted an emotional message today after a knife attack at a dance class themed around her songs which left two children dead and six others critical.

A 17-year-old boy remains in custody accused of murder and attempted murder and is being questioned following the incident in Southport, Merseyside, on Monday.

Nine children were injured in the stabbings, alongside the two who died and two adults who remain in a critical condition after attempting to protect the youngsters.

Here is the post from the US pop star after two children were killed and six left in a critical condition after attending a Taylor Swift-themed dance class.

Taylor Swift has said she is 'completely in shock' over the Southport knife attack in a message on Instagram.

She said:

Police are continuing to question a 17-year-old boy in connection with the knife attack in Southport that killed two children and left six others in a critical condition as well as two adults.

In what will be a very emotional day in Merseyside, let's recap what has happened this morning as harrowing details continue to emerge:

MailOnline has put together a timeline to give a minute-by-minute account of the Southport knife attack as we approach 24 hours on from the stabbings.

Police are questioning a 17-year-old boy on suspicion of murder and attempted murder and he remains in police custody.

Leanne Lucas (pictured), a qualified primary school teacher, is the owner and founder of Enlighten and planned the two-hour Taylor Swift-themed dance session to coincide with the start of the school holidays.

Posting a photo of Ms Lucas on Facebook, Sunshine Yoga wrote:

According to Leanne's Facebook page, she had only recently returned to the UK after a holiday in Italy that included a trip to Venice and the Dolomite Mountains.

Meanwhile Heidi Barlow was a dance teacher at Southport Dance Academy, where she had recently taken time off to have a baby girl.

Wishing her luck last year, the school said: 'We are sending you lots of love and hope you are enjoying all the quality time together.'

by James Fielding, Ian Leonard and Iwan Stone

Two hero dance class teachers saved up to 16 innocent children from being attacked by a masked killer who ambushed a Taylor Swift-themed workshop in Southport yesterday, MailOnline can reveal.

Brave Leanne Lucas, 35, who organised the yoga and bracelet making class is among the victims fighting for her life in hospital after the 'ferocious attack' that left two children dead.

The primary school supply teacher - who now teaches children's yoga workshops - suffered stab injuries after a man entered the venue through the unlocked door, which was left open amid the scorching heat, and started attacking children.

Ms Lucas and her co-organiser and dance teacher Heidi Barlow, also 35, saved 16 children as the 25-strong class aged between six and 11, while nine children were taken to hospital and six remain in a critical condition.

Ms Barlow was also injured in the attack, although not seriously, MailOnline understands.

Emotional residents in Southport have visited the scene of the attack to lay tributes.

One woman was in tears as she stood near the police cordon with increasing numbers of flowers left on the street.

Southport MP Patrick Hurley has been speaking to media outside the police cordon as the town reacts to the fatal knife attack that left two children dead and six in a critical condition.

He said:

Fans of pop megastar Taylor Swift have raised more than £20,000 to support families in Southport.

Children and adults were attacked by a knifeman during a Swift-themed dance class in Hart Street.

Cristina Jones from the Taylor Swift UK & EU Facebook Group set up a JustGiving page with a £13,000 target that has already been smashed with more than £22,000 raised as of 9.30am.

The page reads:

Southport Football Club will be open to residents from 10am to 3pm today to offer support to anyone affected by the knife attack.

Yesterday, the club announced it had cancelled a pre-season friendly with Morecambe which had been scheduled tonight.

More pictures have emerged of flowers laid at the scene of the knife attack in Southport as friends and neighbours continue to leave condolences today.

Here are the latest photographs

A teenager continues to be quizzed by police following a 'ferocious' knife attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class which left two children dead and six other youngsters in a critical condition.

The 17-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, remains in custody accused of murder and attempted murder following the incident in Hart Street, Southport, on Monday.

Police said the suspect, who was born in Cardiff, is from the village of Banks, just outside Southport, and a road in the area was cordoned off by detectives on Monday afternoon.

Police have said although the motive for the attack is unclear, it is not believed to be terror-related.

by Iwan Stone

A horrific knife attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance workshop where a masked killer stabbed two children to death unfolded in just 20 minutes - in a bloodbath that unleashed terror onto the streets of Southport.

Eleven others, including nine more children, were left injured after the brutal incident at the sold-out dance, yoga and bracelet making workshop - with six kids and both adults still in a critical condition.

The masked attacker entered The Hart Space - a community centre at the heart of the Merseyside community - through the door, which had been left open in an attempt to keep cool amid the scorching heat.

Merseyside Chief Constable Serena Kennedy said she 'cannot imagine' the suffering of families affected by the Southport knife attack.

In a statement issued last night, she said:

by Arthur Parashar

A heroic businessman was stabbed in the leg as he tried to disarm the Southport attacker - after running into a Taylor Swift-themed dance workshop when he heard the piercing screams of children from his office.

Jonathan Hayes, 63, was among those who tried to intervene as a knifeman launched a frenzied attack on a group of children enjoying aworkshop at the beginning of the school holidays.

His wife Helen, 57, has revealed that he regrets not being able to do more to stop the 'ferocious attack' that left two children dead.

As mentioned by Rachel Reeves during her interviews earlier, Yvette Cooper, the Home Secretary, is in Southport this morning.

She is meeting Merseyside Chief Constable Serena Kennedy, police and crime commissioner Emily Spurrell as well as other community leaders.

An emotional father has described the Southport knife attack as the 'worst thing you can imagine'.

Speaking to the BBC, the man said his daughter was at the venue at the weekend and that children of his friends were 'slain and massacred'.

'You don't even hear about this kind of stuff on Netflix,' he said.

The Labour MP for Southport, Patrick Hurley, has told BBC Radi 4 there will be a vigil tonight to support those affected by the horror attack.

Mr Hurley told the Today programme the town is waking up today in 'shock and grief'.

Southport residents have been invited to take part in a vigil outside The Atkinson on Lord Street from 6pm tonight.

by Arthur Parashar

Chilling footage has emerged of a masked figure pacing outside a house that police raided after a knifeman killed two children at a Taylor Swift-themed dance workshop in Southport.

The person, wearing a green hoodie and a Covid-style face mask, can be seen walking back and forth outside the front door of the property around 20 minutes before Monday's rampage, which unfolded on nearby Hart Street at around 11.50am.

At about 1pm, police cars and armed officers are seen on the ITV footage swooping on the same £80,000 property in the village of Banks, Lancashire, which is less than 15 minutes from the scene.

Welcome back to our live coverage of the Southport knife attack which left two children dead and six others in a critical condition.

Two adults are also fighting for their lives following the mass stabbing on Monday morning.

Before we provide further updates over the course of the day, here's a quick recap on what we know so far:

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has suggested Sir Keir Starmer could visit the community as it comes to terms with the Southport knife attack.

Ms Reeves has toured the broadcast studios for a morning round of interviews to discuss her speech in Parliament yesterday but was asked about the mass stabbing.

Asked whether the Prime Minister will be in the north-west seaside town, Rachel Reeves told Sky News:

Reacting to the attack, she said:

Flowers and teddies have been left by the police cordon on Hart Street this morning.

One message in a 'Thinking Of You' card said 'thoughts and prayers' were with those affected and was signed: 'Love – Southport.'

Another said: 'Fly high with angels little ones.'

A large police cordon has remained in place at the scene of the attack.

We are today resuming our live coverage of the mass stabbing in Southport which left two children dead and six others in a critical condition as well as two adults.

A 17-year-old boy, arrested on suspicion of murder, remains in custody following the attack yesterday morning.

We will bring you all the latest developments and reaction throughout the day.

Sir Keir Starmer said 'the whole country is deeply shocked' by the events in Southport.

The frenzy took place towards the end of a Taylor Swift-themed dance workshop at Hart Space Studios (pictured) in Southport.

The Prince and Princess of Wales have sent 'love, thoughts and prayers' to the victims of the 'heinous' attack in Southport.

In a statement, the royal couple said: 'As parents, we cannot begin to imagine what the families, friends and loved ones of those killed and injured in Southport today are going through.'

Rebecca Armstrong, who laid flowers at the scene of the incident, told the Liverpool Echo: 'I felt I had to come here. We had to show we care for the kids and their families. That we’re also suffering. It’s heartbreaking.'

Sisters, Kayla and Belinda also went to lay flowers and pay their respects.

Belinda said: 'When I heard what happened I was in absolute shock. I had to stop what I was doing at work and get home. I couldn’t focus. Those poor kids. It’s beyond belief.'

Merseyside Police and Crime Commissioner Emily Spurrell spoke to the Liverpool Echo about today's attack.

She said: 'It's been hard to find the words to react to what's happened. It's obviously an incredibly distressing incident.

'My heart goes out to all the families and friends, and the whole community who are going to be deeply affected by what's happened today.'

Dave Kitchin, Head of Operations for North West Ambulance Service read out the following statement at this evening's press conference:

'We would like to offer our sincere condolences to those families who have tragically lost loved ones today and the wider community. Our thoughts are with you.

'I can confirm that we were called to Hart Street in Southport just before lunchtime today to an incident of reported multiple stabbings.

'We declared this as a major incident due to the number of casualties and types of injuries sustained. A substantial number of ambulances and specialised resources were dispatched to the scene, including our Hazardous Area Response Team, air ambulance and merit doctors.

'Tragically, we can confirm that sadly two lives have been cut short. We treated 11 casualties on scene who were conveyed by emergency ambulance and helimed to Alder Hey and Royal Manchester Children’s hospitals, along with Aintree, Southport and Formby District General and Ormskirk General hospitals.

'I would like to thank our staff who worked incredibly hard caring for the victims, in what was a devastating scene. We would like to also thank our blue light and NHS colleagues for all their support during this incident.

'Again, I would like to express my deepest sympathies to the loved ones of those affected. No doubt this incident will have a lasting impact on the whole community and our thoughts are very much with them at this difficult time.'

In a statement made this evening, the King said: 'My wife and I have been profoundly shocked to hear of the utterly horrific incident in Southport today.

'We send our most heartfelt condolences, prayers and deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones of those who have so tragically lost their lives, and to all those affected by this truly appalling attack.'

Councillor Marion Atkinson, Leader of Sefton Council, said in a statement: 'We are deeply shocked and saddened at the tragic events, which unfolded earlier today. Our thoughts are with all the victims of this attack and their families.

'I’d like to thank all those who responded to the incident and helped in any way they could in what must have been extremely difficult circ*mstances.

'We know this has caused concern and upset in the local community and while there is no immediate threat to the public we will be providing help and support in the coming days and weeks.

'We are working closely with our partners, including the police, and further updates will be issued in due course. We’d ask people not to speculate on social media as this may hamper the investigation and any future court proceedings and provide further distress to those affected.'

Liverpool FC and Everton FC have come together to send their support to those affected by a mass stabbing in Southport.

The two football clubs posted on X: 'Everton and Liverpool Football Clubs come together to send our love and support to all those affected by today’s tragic events in Southport. You are in our thoughts and prayers.'

'It is with great sadness that today I am here to advise that two young children have died as a result of injuries sustained in a knife attack this morning.

'Nine other children have been injured, and six of them are in a critical condition, all those injured have suffered stab wounds sustained during the attack. Two adults are also in a critical condition after being injured during the incident.

'A 17-year-old male from Banks in Lancashire, who is originally from Cardiff, has been arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder and has been taken to a police station where he will be interviewed by detectives.

'My officers were called to reports of a stabbing at 11.47am at an address Southport. When they arrived they were shocked to find that multiple people, many of whom were children, had been subjected to a ferocious attack and had suffered serious injuries.

'It is understood that the children were attending a Taylor Swift event at a dance school when the offender, who was armed with a knife, walked into the premises and started to attack those inside. We believe that the adults who were injured were trying to protect the children at the time they were attacked.

'As a mum of two daughters, and the nanna of a five-year-old granddaughter, I cannot begin to imagine the pain and suffering the families of the victims are currently going through and I want to send them our heartfelt condolences and sympathies.

'Our specialist Family Liaison Officers are providing support to the families at this terrible time.

'I would appeal to anyone who witnessed anything, or who has information that could help our investigation or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

'Anyone who has been affected by this incident, can contact our Victim Care Merseyside service for help and support. Our hub of local, trained staff is here to provide free, emotional and practical support tailored to your needs.

'You can contact Victim Care Merseyside for help whether you have reported a crime to the police or not by calling Freephone 0808 175 3080 on weekdays between 8am and 6pm or request support online at any time at www.victimcaremerseyside.org.'

Speaking during this evening's press conference, Merseyside Police Chief Constable Serena Kennedy said: 'As a mum and a nanna, I can't begin to imagine the pain and suffering that the families of the victims are going through at this moment in time.

'I wish to send my heartfelt condolences to them.'

Merseyside Police Chief Constable Serena Kennedy said the children attacked in Southport had been attending a Taylor Swift event at a dance hall.

Two adults were also injured in the stabbings and Ms Kennedy said they had tried to protect the children.

She said: 'It is understood that the children were attending a Taylor Swift event at a dance hall when the offender, armed with a knife, walked into the premises and started to attack inside.

'We believe that the adults who were injured were bravely trying to protect the children who were being attacked.'

In a press conference this evening, police confirmed that there were a total of 11 people stabbed - nine children and two adults.

Six of the children and both adults - who were bravely trying to protect the kids - are in a critical condition.

Merseyside Police Chief Constable Serena Kennedy saying: 'We believe that the adults who were injured were bravely trying to protect the children who were being attacked'

Merseyside Police confirmed that a 17-year-old boy, originally from Cardiff but living in Banks, Lancashire, was arrested in connection to the Southport attack and is in police custody.

The force said that the incident was not being treated as 'terror-related' and that they are 'not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident'.

Two children have died and nine have been injured, including six who are in a critical condition, following the stabbings in Southport.

Two adults are also in a critical coniditon.

A 17-year-old boy, from the nearby village of Banks in Lancashire, has been arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder.

Local resident Joanne Newman said her elder daughter - who had been taking her younger sister to a friend's house - heard a 'sinister scream' around the same time of the stabbing.

She told BBC News: 'She said she heard quite a sinister scream and literally she'd got back from taking my daughter - we don't know roughly what time it was but it was similar timing, and then all the commotion had gone on, so looking back at the timescales that potentially could have been - but she said it was a very untoward, unusual scream, so we don't know.'

Merseyside Police will hold a press conference on the Southport stabbings at 6.30pm.

Merseyside Police Chief Constable Serena Kennedy, MFRS Chief Fire Officer Phil Garrigan and NWAS Cheshire and Merseyside Head of Service Dave Kitchin will be speaking to media.

Police have cordoned off a street with officers stationed outside a house in the village of Banks, about three miles from the stabbing incident.

It is not yet clear if the two incidents are linked.

Two police cars are stationed on Old School Close, with more police vehicles and officers behind the cordon.

Locals said Matrix police, the armed unit of Merseyside Police, descended on the address shortly after the incident in Southport.

A helicopter is reportedly still circling in the area and the road remains closed off

A local resident said she left work immediately to check on her daughters when she heard news of the attack in Southport, adding that parents have been checking in with one another.

Joanne Newman told BBC News: 'I got a call from a very, very good friend of mine, I was in work completely oblivious to it and as soon as she told me I literally ran out of work.

'I don't know how I managed to drive back to be fair - my priority was just my girls, my girls, my girls.'

'I knew my eldest daughter was taking her to a friend's house and I'm just so thankful to God that they're safe.'

She continued: 'Nobody can believe it, all the local mums have checked in with one another - I'm sure we're all going to know somebody from that awful, that poor group. But the parents I checked in on, my girls and I just ran to the crowd because I just thought, you put your NHS head on don't you?

'The mother that I was just consoling, just the look on her face because she knew something had happened to her child, it's like 'oh my gosh', how do you even comprehend - there's nothing you can do.'

Police have confirmed that a 17-year-old male has been arrested in connection to the stabbing in Southport this morning.

The teenager remains in police custody and will be questioned about the incident.

The force say enquiries are ongoing to establish the motive for this incident and urges people not to speculate while their investigation is ongoing.

Merseyside Police also confirmed the incident is not being treated as terror-related and they are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.

Shocked neighbours at the scene on Tithebarne Road have said they 'can't believe' what has happened this afternoon.

One woman described it as 'bedlam', telling the Liverpool Echo: 'I've lived here 37 years and can't believe it. We never see police here. It's a safe area.'

The Bishop of Liverpool has released a statement reacting to the stabbing of at least seven people in Southport.

Right Reverend Dr John Perumbalath, Bishop of Liverpool, said: 'Like so many, I am shocked and saddened by the news from Southport. My prayers are, and will remain, with all those affected by this tragedy.

'I am deeply grateful for the quick response of all the emergency services and pray for all those called to care for the victims and support those affected by this incident.

'I know events such as this are unsettling for the community and I pray for peace, calm and reassurance for all affected.'

The Liverpool ECHO are reporting that a home on Old School Close in Banks - on the outskirts of Southport.

The house cordoned off by multiple police officers is a 15 minute drive away from Hart Street. The Liverpool ECHO reports that this operation is in connection with the Southport stabbing.

Eyewitnesses have recalled the traumatic events that unfolded on the streets of Southport this afternoon.

A man working on a nearby house said: 'I heard the kids playing and then I heard swearing and shouting. I came outside to see what was happening - I thought it was a fight. I've heard two different screams and mothers crying. These things will live with you forever.'

Alaina Riley, 18, told the Liverpool Echo: 'Those kids will be traumatised for life. They went to go for a Taylor Swift workshop. Those kids are on holiday - they're living their lives and doing what they love to do.

'My thoughts go out to the kids and their families. It's horrific to hear. The local community will be devastated. Knife crime is a big thing now. A man has gone out and ruined those kids lives.'

Locals in Southport are working together to coodinate donations of food and water for the victims' families.

Speaking to the BBC Dave, a man who lives in the area, said supermarket staff were paying for stock with their own money to to make sure families had enough.

He said: 'I saw the news and I knew immediately I had to help.

'Things like this never happen in Southport and I think we’re all in shock. We just wanted to do something to help.'

This follows reports from an eyewitness that a neighbour living nearby took 10 children in off the street to safety.

The eyewitness told Radio 5 LIVE: 'The community was coming together, everyone was trying to help. 'Everyone was trying to save the young kids.'

One child has reportedly been killed and at least seven others have been injured after a mass knife attack in Southport.

Merseyside Police are yet to issue any update following a statement just after 1pm but here's everything you need to know.

One resident, who lives on Hart Street but did not want to be named, said he was at home about midday when a woman pulled up outside in her car, screaming.

He said:

He added:

Employees at Hart Space where a knifeman attacked at least eight children, reportedly killing one of them, has been described as a 'lovely and relaxing' space by one of its workers.

The unnamed employee said the front door to the property was usually left unlocked as there was no other way out of the address in case of a fire.

She added:

The mayor of Liverpool has asked the public not to spread false information and wait for official updates as the horrifying incident continues to unfold.

In the last hour, Steve Rotheram posted this statement on X.

by Chris Matthews and Emily Jane-Davies

One child is reportedly dead and at least seven other people injured after a knifeman rampaged through a Taylor Swift-themed children's workshop in Southport.

Armed police officers swooped on Hart Street in Merseyside, at 11.50am this morning after the stabbing spree at the children's dance and yoga workshop which locals said is usually the 'most lovely, lovely relaxing place'.

Merseyside Police officers detained a man and seized a knife after the attack.The force urged people to avoid the area but said there was 'no wider threat' to the public.

The spree left one child dead, the Liverpool Echoreported.Around 25 youngsters were believed to have been taking part in the event when the horror unfolded at the hypnobirthing centre.

Eyewitnesses said they saw a hooded manarrive in a taxi with a knife before the attack which left children running from the building following the horrific ordeal, with people on the street 'in tears'.

Read more here:

An onlooker has described how he saw a group of injured children running from the holiday club after a mass stabbing in Southport.

Eye-witness Bare Varathan, 35, who owns a corner shop on Hart Street, said he was called by a staff member who told him, 'Boss, get to the shop!'

He said:

We can now bring you Yvette Cooper's remarks from Parliament as she updates MPs on the latest situation in Southport.

Ms Cooper said she is in contact with the Merseyside police and crime commissioner Emily Spurrell.

A staff member at the Hart Space, who wanted to remain anonymous, said she heard from onlookers that children had been spotted running from the building covered in blood following the horrific ordeal.

The knife attack had taken place during a Taylor Swift-themed workshop at a summer holiday club.

The staff member told SWNS press agency:

The major incident was declared after a child was killed during a stabbing frenzy at a Taylor Swift-themed dance workshop at summer holiday club, it has been reported.

The unnamed child was among eight people stabbed at the event being held for primary school children at The Hart Space in Southport, Merseyside.

Around 25 youngsters were believed to have been taking part in the event when the horror unfolded at the hypnobirthing centre in the street around 11.50am.

The business runs kids clubs during the holidays allowing children to take part in dance and craft classes.

Forensic investigators have been pictured at the scene of a major incident in Southport where at least eight people, including children, have been stabbed.

Local media are reporting at least one child has been killed but authorities are yet to confirm this.

The Prime Minister said he is receiving regular updates as he thanked police and emergency services for its response to the mass stabbing.

A local journalist has described how neighbours and paramedics were in tears after the stabbing unfolded.

Tim Johnson of Eye on Southport told the BBC the incident happened at the Hope of Hart children's club, which is housed in a former warehouse building.

Mr Johnson said he arrived on the scene 20 minutes after police were called and described how he saw one girl on a stretcher covered in blood

Merseyside Police were called to Hart Street in Southport where at least eight people, including children, have been injured in a mass stabbing.

Southport is a coastal town in the borough of Sefton and is 17 miles north of Liverpool and 12 miles south-west of Preston.

Here's a map below:

The Liverpool Echo is reporting one child has died and multiple victims are in a critical condition following a mass stabbing in Southport.

The newspaper's editor Maria Breslin tweeted:

Merseyside Police are yet to confirm any fatalites. We will continue to bring you the latest developments as and when we can.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said she is 'deeply concerned' after at least eight patients were taken to hospital with stab injuries following a 'major incident' in Southport.

Southport MP Patrick Hurley said he was 'deeply concerned' by the reports coming from Merseyside Police.

In a statement on X, formerly Twitter, he said:

If you're just joining us we are providing live updates of a major incident in Southport where eight people, some understood to be children, have been injured following reports of a mass stabbing.

Here's what you need to know

We can now bring you footage of the moment ambulances arrived at Hart Street in Southport where eight people have been injured in a mass stabbing.

Thirteen ambulances in total were dispatched to the scene.

Alder Hey's Children Hospital has declared a major incident after a mass stabbing in Southport.

It is understood children have been injured in the attack but it is not known how many at this stage.

In a statement, the hospital said:

A local businessman, who was one of the people who called the police, said the incident in Southport was like a 'scene in a horror movie.'

Colin Parry, owner of Masters Vehicle Body Repairs on Hart Street, said he believed six or seven 'young girls' had been stabbed.

He told the PA news agency:

More pictures have emerged of the major incident in Southport where North West Ambulance Service has confirmed eight people have been taken to hospital with stab injuries.

It is understood children are among the victims with some casualties taken to Alder Hey Children's Hospital.

North West Ambulance Service has confirmed eight people have been treated for stab injuries

Here is the statement:

Merseyide's police and crime commissioner Emily Spurrell has urged the public not to speculate about a major incident in Southport.

She said she was 'deeply shocked' and 'concerned' in a statement on X.

Neighbours in Southport have told how they were urged to lock their doors and windows amid reports of a mass stabbing.

Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, one woman, who lives near Hart Street, said:

The woman added one of her neighbours had barricaded herself and her children in their bedroom.

North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) said its paramedics were responding to reports of 'multiple stabbings' in Southport.

An NWAS statement on social media said:

We can now bring you footage of an air ambulance that has been called to reports of a stabbing in Southport.

The exact number of casulaties is not yet known.

by Chris Matthews

As many as six children are feared to be seriously hurt after a knifeman 'stabbed multiple people at a holiday club'.

This is a breaking news story. More updates to follow.

As we await further details on the major incident in Southport, we can show you some pictures of emergency services at the scene with a street cordoned off.

Here are the latest images:

Police tape has been put in place in Hart Street

Multiple police vehicles are now stationed in the road

An air ambulance has also been pictured nearby

A man has been detained after reports of a stabbing in Southport, in Merseyside, which has left a number of people injured.

A Merseyside Police statement said:

Hello and welcome to MailOnline's live coverage amid reports multiple people have been injured in a stabbing near Liverpool.

Merseyside Police have confirmed emergency services are at the scene of a 'major incident' at a house in Southport where it is understood there are a number of casualties.

We will bring you the latest details of the incident as and when we get them.