Headteachers 'heartbroken and devastated' as they pay tribute to three girls killed in brutal Southport stabbings

The headteachers of the schools attended by three young girls killed in the brutal Southport stabbings have said they are 'heartbroken and devastated'.

Bebe King, six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine, all died in the horror attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance party at a property on Hart Street on Monday (July 29).

Eight other children suffered stab wounds sustained during the attack - with five of them in a critical condition. Two adults are also in a critical condition after being injured and 'bravely' trying to save the children during the horror incident.

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Merseyside Police revealed they had arrested a 17-year-old male on suspicion of murder and attempted murder, and that the fatal incident is not currently being treated as terror-related.

Jennifer Sephton, headteacher at Farnborough Road Infant School, said she was 'heartbroken and devastated' by the death of 'one of a kind' pupil Elsie Dot Stancombe, aged seven.

She said: “Elsie has been a loving and bright member of our wonderful community since first being brought here on her father’s shoulders, and even at her early age she was such a caring and charismatic young lady who loved to please. Elsie was a kind and caring friend to all who met her and was adored by everyone in our community.

“Our hearts and most deeply-felt sympathies go out to Elsie’s family, friends and our Farnborough community who have been left numb by what has happened. It is immensely difficult to put into words how amazing Elsie was and the impact she had on those around her. We will miss you dearly Elsie. You were one of a kind.”

Natasha Sandland, headteacher of Marshside Primary School, paid tribute