'We are all different but we are very special to each other'

THE families of the three girls who died following a devastating attack at a dance class in Southport have spoken about how their bond helps them navigate their heartbreak.

- BY JANE KIRBY

Families of the Southport attack victims

Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, Bebe King, six, and Alice da Silva Aguiar, nine, were killed by then 17-year-old Axel Rudakubana at the Hart Space on July 29 last year. Eight children and two adults were also injured.

Speaking in a BBC documentary, Jenni Stancombe, Elsie's mother, said: “We've been together in some of the most difficult conversations. But together, between the six of us, we always seem to pull the light out (of the darkness).”

BBC Breakfast reporters have been following the families over the past nine months for a programme on BBC One. The documentary chronicles how the three families have worked to establish enduring tributes honouring their daughters, alongside the launch of a new school playground.

Though strangers before the attack, Lauren King, Bebe’s mother, described their meetings since the tragedy as “crucial to our survival” and a “blessing”.