Volunteers from a Blackburn charity joined mourners in Southport to pay their respects to Alice da Silva Aguiar, who was killed in a mass stabbing at a dance class.

Alice, Bebe King, six, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, were all killed in the attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class on July 29.

Eight other children were injured in the attack, and all have now been discharged from hospital and are recovering at home.

Members of the public lined Marshside Road as the funeral cortege arrived, along with about 30 uniformed police officers.

Pink ribbons and balloons were tied to lamp posts and garden walls.

The Benefit Mankind team joined mourners to 'spread love' by offering roses. More than 600 fresh roses and chocolates were distributed to the Southport community.

Chief executive of Benefit Mankind, Abdussamad Mulla, said: "We must show unity and compassion during testing times.

 "The pain of the people of Southport is our pain, and we grieve together. Haters will not win, as this will make our country stronger and greater. 

"Our country is great because of our love, compassion, kindness, and inclusivity of all communities, and we will come out stronger as one after these testing times."

Volunteers said they have been on the ground, providing essential 'emotional, spiritual, and practical support' to those directly affected by the tragedy. 

The charity said: "As the town grapples with this unimaginable loss, the community has come together in a remarkable show of unity, compassion, and resilience, determined to support the grieving families and each other through this heartbreaking time.

"The sense of togetherness and solidarity in Southport has been palpable, as neighbours, friends, and even strangers unite to spread love, hope, and comfort in the face of such profound sorrow.

"This collective grief has sparked an outpouring of support from all corners of the community. 

"Residents have been gathering at vigils, offering prayers and words of encouragement, and contributing to fundraising efforts aimed at helping the affected families."