Southport stabbings: Parents of six-year-old victim Bebe King reveal older sister saw attack and escaped

Bebe King died along with nine-year-old Alice Dasilva Aguiar and Elsie Dot Stancombe, aged seven, after the stabbings at a Taylor Swift-themed dance workshop in the Merseyside town on 29 July.

The deaths of the three girls sparked anti-immigration protests and riots across UK towns and cities after false information circulated on social media that the attacker was an illegal migrant.

In a statement issued by Merseyside Police, Bebe's parents Lauren and Ben said their daughter "was full of joy, light, and love, and she will always remain in our hearts as the sweet, kind, and spirited girl we adore".

They revealed their nine-year-old older Genie witnessed the attack and managed to escape, saying: "She has shown such incredible strength and courage, and we are so proud of her.

"Her resilience is a testament to the love and bond she shared with her little sister, and we will continue to support her as we navigate this painful journey together as a family."

Their statement added: "On Monday the 29th of July, our world was shattered by the loss of our precious daughter Bebe.

"Along with two other beautiful souls, Elsie and Alice, she was taken from us in an unimaginable act of violence that has left our hearts broken beyond repair."

Directly addressing Alice and Elsie's families, Bebe's parents said they were thinking of them and "hold them close in [their] hearts".

In a message to those injured in the attack and other children who witnessed it, they added: "We send our love and hope that they too can begin to heal, surrounded by the care and support of those who love them."

It comes after Alder Hey Children's Hospital announced last week that all the children who were under its care after being injured in the attack had been "safely discharged home".

Bebe's parents said the "outpouring of love and support" from the community in the seaside town, from the whole of Liverpool and from further afield "has been a source of incredible comfort during this unimaginably difficult time".

"From the pink lights illuminating Sefton and Liverpool, to the pink bows, flowers, balloons, cards, and candles left in her memory, we have been overwhelmed by the kindness and compassion shown to our family," they said.

"We are so grateful to everyone who has reached out to us."

They also thanked the emergency service workers who attended the scene last month and who have continued to support the family.

"We will forever be grateful for the way you have helped us through this harrowing time," the parents said.

The tribute to Bebe comes after the family of Alice held a vigil for friends, loved ones and members of the community, just over a week after her death.

During the church service on 6 August, Alice's cousin Erica described her as her "best friend forever", adding: "We will never forget you."

A few days earlier, hundreds of people attended a peaceful vigil in Southport to mark a week on from the stabbing attack.

Children were pictured blowing bubbles which had been donated by local shops, arcades and charities. Other people left toys, flowers and heart-shaped balloons.

Axel Rudakubana, 18, has been charged with the murder of the three girls at the Hart Space in Southport.

He is also charged with the attempted murder of yoga class instructor Leanne Lucas, businessman John Hayes, and eight children, who cannot be named for legal reasons, and possession of a kitchen knife with a curved blade.

-SKY NEWS