Priest's moving tribute at Alice Da Silva Aguiar's funeral

Crowds applauded as the coffin of Alice Da Silva Aguiar arrived at church for her funeral. Hundreds lined the streets at the funeral cortege made its way toward St Patrick's Catholic Church on Marshside Road, Southport.

Families with children dressed in white and pink gathered outside to pay their respects to Alice. As the nine-year old's loved ones took their seats and the service began, the priest leading the ceremony made a moving tribute. In memory of Alice who loved playing the guitar, the priest played a song, with Alice’s guitar next to him while he sang.

Emergency workers, including some who responded to the tragic events on July 29, were in attendance, and so was Merseyside Police Chief Constable Serena Kennedy. Mourners were seen in tears as they gathered to pay their respects.

Advisor to the Secretary of State for Portugal has thanked the British authorities for their support of Alice’s family. Patrick Hurley, Southport MP, also spoke at the funeral where he said this is what the Southport community is about.

Alice was one of the three children killed in Southport last week, with her family arranging her funeral and details being shared on social media. Her funeral is currently taking place at St Patrick's Catholic Church on Marshside Road.

The funeral procession arrived just before 2pm, with a horse drawn carriage and crowds of mourners welcomed by applause from the crowds gathered on Marshside Road. Many people wore pastel colours in memory of Alice as they made their way into the church. You can follow updates from Alice's funeral by clicking here.