Playground Unveiled Today in Memory of Southport Stabbing Victims

UPDATE: A new playground honoring the victims of the tragic Southport stabbing is set to be unveiled today as students return to Churchtown Primary School. This emotional moment comes nearly a year after the attack that claimed the lives of Alice da Silva Aguiar, age nine, Bebe King, age six, and seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class on July 29, 2022.

The playground, designed as a “lasting legacy,” was proposed by Alice’s parents, who spearheaded fundraising efforts that exceeded expectations. Initially aiming for £250,000, the community raised over £370,000, with surplus funds directed to local charities. Today’s unveiling symbolizes hope and healing for the community, providing a space for children to play and remember their classmates.

Headteacher Jinnie Payne expressed her excitement, stating, “I’m delighted that after months of hard work and determination, we have made the Churchtown playground a reality. Our children are going to love what has been achieved, which will serve as a lasting legacy for Alice and Bebe for generations to come.”

The new play area features a library, performance space, climbing frames, and a football pitch, all designed to engage the school’s young students. An inscription on a shelter reads, “In memory of Alice and Bebe, forever in our hearts,” while heart-shaped plaques bear their names, surrounded by those of their classmates.

Jack Snowdon, director of estates and operations for the Endeavour Learning Trust, remarked that the playground serves as an active memorial. “It’s a beautiful space of remembrance,” he noted, predicting “shock and surprise” among the children when they see the improvements.

Local artist Tony Wynne contributed murals to the playground, embodying themes of hope and friendship. One mural features a stormy scene transforming into a serene landscape, symbolizing resilience, while another shows three ballet dancers accompanied by a poignant poem from student Della Potter. Wynne shared that the children’s vision guided the mural’s creation, emphasizing the importance of togetherness in overcoming sorrow.

As children arrive at the playground today, excitement is palpable. The new space not only honors the memory of Alice and Bebe but also fosters a sense of community and healing. “I think we’ll see a lot of smiling faces, and they’ll just be really excited to get out there and explore,” Snowdon added.

This unveiling marks a hopeful chapter for the community of Southport, reflecting the strength and unity that emerged in the wake of tragedy. As families gather to celebrate the new playground, the emotional resonance of this project will be felt for years to come.

Residents and parents are encouraged to share their thoughts and experiences as they witness the playground’s impact on their children and the community. This new playground is more than just a recreational area; it stands as a beacon of hope and resilience for all who knew Alice and Bebe.