24-hour fundraiser in memory of Elsie, Bebe and Alice

A 24-hour fundraiser is set to take place for the schools of three girls who were tragically killed in a mass stabbing. Steven Thompson has organised a "football marathon" as he hopes to raise as much money as possible for the schools of Elsie Dot Stancombe, Bebe King and Alice Da Silva Aguiar following their deaths after an attack on Monday, July 29, when they were stabbed to death during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport.

The event will see veterans and walking football enthusiasts between the ages of 60 and 90 take to the pitch for a 24-hour five-a-side "walking football marathon", starting at 10am on September 18 at Dunes Leisure Centre. Setting up a JustGiving page, Steven wrote: "The Schools can utilise the money in any way that they see fit, the choice is theirs.

"Many players have personal connections to these schools, with children or grandchildren who are, or were pupils, and some even attended these schools themselves. We believe that directing sponsorship directly to these Schools will greatly benefit the local children and allow us, at the other end of the age spectrum, to contribute back to our cherished community.

READ MORE: Schoolgirl, 11, taken to hospital after being hit by car on Queens Drive

READ MORE: Boy, 16, went to nightclub and was left facing years behind bars

"Southport FC, Everton FC and Liverpool FC have agreed to support our cause, and we urge the local community to help us reach our financial goal."

The three schools that will receive funds from the event are Farnborough Road Junior and Infants Primary School, Churchtown Primary School and Marshside Primary School. To read more about the fundraiser or to donate, click here.

The attack at the beginning of the summer holidays saw eight children and two adults injured as well, with children returning to school for the first time last week.

In a joint letter from Southport's schools and colleges issued through Sefton Council's Southport Learning Partnership team, headteachers across the town reassured parents and children ahead of their return. It read: "We wanted to reach out and express our sympathy and solidarity with all of our families. Following the tragic recent events in Southport, we extend our sincere and heartfelt thoughts to the families impacted by these events and we hold dear the wonderful memories we have of Alice, Bebe and Elsie Dot.

"We stand with you as a community and we are committed in offering our unwavering support as we navigate together through these most difficult of times. Like you, we are so grateful for the responses of the emergency services and other professionals this summer as well as the community response and volunteers."

The letter continued to say the schools believe it is more important than ever for the community to come together, encouraging open communication between schools and parents in order to ensure the return to school is as calm and reassuring as possible. It said: "We are proud of our diverse community and know that there are many of us who need reassurance now.

"Please be confident that our schools are safe and inclusive places where each and every child is cherished and valued equally. Our school is part of the Southport Learning Partnership which includes all the schools and colleges in Southport. This partnership provides great strength and consistency ensuring we work together at the most challenging of times. Working in partnership with Sefton Council and other key partners provides us with access to additional support and training which will be so important as we all return to school."

The letter directed parents to the Sefton Council website where a variety of services are available to parents and children in the community. The website is updated regularly and available to view here.