Parents of girls killed in Southport murders speak out as dad recalls how he 'went cold'

The parents of two of the girls murdered in Southport have spoken out in an emotional interview.

Bebe King, six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine, were all killed by 18-year-old Axel Rudakubana. The girls had all attended a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in the town when the killer burst in wielding a knife.

Rudakubana was jailed for life, and ordered to serve a minimum of 52 years in prison, for the heinous killings on July 29 last year. He also attempted to murder eight other children, who cannot be named for legal reasons, as well as class instructor Leanne Lucas and businessman John Hayes.

Bebe and Elsie's families have now spoken out in an interview with the Sunday Times. Bebe's family said that the local community have helped them through the horrific period. Following the attack, vast numbers of flowers and toys were left by the town hall in Southport, with a display arranged by the Lord Street in Bloom gardening group.

Bebe's parents talking of the reaction from locals reportedly said: “It’s about this community. It has brought light in the darkness, these little moments. And that’s what we’re constantly looking for right now.”

Her father said how he searched the streets for his daughter until a police officer gave a description that matched her. "We had given people Bebe’s description. When that person came towards me, I could feel the blood drain from me and I went cold,” the 43 year old told the paper.

"I knew she was going to tell me something. And she did. ‘Are you Bebe’s dad?’ As soon as I said yes she said she had passed away.” Bebe’s mum added: "Bebe operated on such a high frequency. She had this power to connect with people and the relationships she had with all her