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Family HandoutsMourners gathered on Merseyside to pay tribute to a Portuguese girl who died in a mass stabbing at a dance studio in Southport last week.
Alice da Silva Aguiar, Bebe King and Elsie Dot Stancombe were killed while attending a Taylor Swift-themed dance class on July 29. Ten other people were seriously injured in the attack.
At a memorial service at St Patrick’s Church on Tuesday, Alice’s family and friends sang hymns and read eulogies in English and Portuguese.
The nine-year-old girl’s parents, Sérgio and Alexandra, entered the ceremony holding a toy and their daughter’s ballet shoes.
It was a painful image, but one that served as a reminder to worshippers that it was a celebration of her life, a traditional ceremony in their home country a week after the death of a loved one.
At the memorial service, chaired by Father John Heneghan, Alice’s parents thanked the local community for their support, while the headmaster of Churchtown Primary School read out eulogies to Alice from her classmates.
Ginny Payne said: “If I could describe her in at least three words it would be amazing, caring and confident.
“If you’re having a bad day and need someone to help you, Alice is there to help you.”
A spokesperson for Alice’s family fought back tears and said: “Alice, you are the most beautiful and strong girl in the world and I want you to know that we love you from the bottom of our hearts.
“Keep smiling and dancing with the girls.”
She read another message from her family which read: “We love you Alice, your smile was infectious and full of joy.
“You always put everyone in a good mood.”
One of Alice’s classmates added: “You will live in our hearts forever.
“You are the kindest person in the world, we know, and you are the strongest girl we have ever met.”
PA AverageThis was the first family service but it was needed in the local community. People also prayed for Bebe and Elsie.
After the service, the congregation gathered outside the church to sing “You Are My Sunshine.”
Alice’s funeral will be held on Sunday.
Alder Hey Hospital confirmed on Tuesday that all children injured in the knife attack People who received treatment on their websited Discharged.
Alder Hey said: “We would also like to express our gratitude to everyone who has sent their well wishes to Alder Hey and the families affected.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to all those affected by last week’s tragic events.”
Axel Muganwa Rudakubana from Banks, Lancashire Charged with three counts of murder10 attempted murders and possession of a curved kitchen knife.
The 17-year-old was born in Cardiff to Rwandan parents and moved to the Southport area in 2013.
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