Blackburn with Darwen Council has sent its 'deepest sympathies' to Southport after the tragic stabbing attack on Monday and offered its help and support to the town's community.
The incident at a Taylor Swift-themed yoga and dance workshop left three children dead and eight injured along with two adults.
A 17-year-old male, Axel Rudakubana, has appeared in court charged with three counts of murder, 10 counts of attempted murder and possession of a bladed article.
Now Blackburn with Darwen Council leader Cllr Phil Riley and borough Mayor Cllr Brian Taylor have written to the leader and Mayor of Sefton Borough Council, which includes Southport, Cllrs Marion Atkinson and June Burns.
Their letter says: "On behalf of Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council we’d like to offer our deepest sympathies to all those affected by the tragic events in Southport.
"Our condolences go out to the family and friends of the young girls and adults who were attacked and those who have tragically lost their lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with those who remain in hospital.
"We would also like to express our admiration for the Southport community who whilst grieving themselves, have come together to offer strength, support and solidarity in extremely difficult circumstances.
"Our thanks also to Merseyside Police for not only providing support to the families at this terrible time and working hard to investigate what happened but for also showing bravery and courage in the violence that erupted during the evening.
"We know that people in Lancashire will share in the grief of all of those affected by this shocking incident and that Lancashire Police Officers, alongside colleagues from other regional forces, are deployed to Southport.
"We would like to offer our support as neighbours and are happy to help in any way possible over the coming days and weeks."
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