Prince William and Princess Kate made a subtle tribute to the victims of the Southport murders during their recent visit to the town. Tragically, in July 2024, nine-year-old Alice da Silva Aguiar, six-year-old Bebe King, and seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe lost their lives in a devastating attack at their dance class.
During their emotional visit, the royal couple met with the families of the three girls and engaged with the school communities to understand how they were coping with the profound loss over a year after the tragic incident. William and Kate visited Churchtown Primary School, where Alice and Bebe were students, and interacted with their classmates, while also witnessing the unveiling of a new playground dedicated to the girls.
The Prince and Princess had private conversations with Bebe’s parents, Lauren and Ben King, as well as with Alice’s parents, Sergio and Alexandra Aguiar, at the school. They wore beaded friendship bracelets gifted by the Kings, bearing the inscription “Bebe’s Hive,” the charity established in Bebe’s memory.
Reflecting on the royal visit, Lauren King expressed gratitude, stating, “It meant everything. It was really special. I think we’re really grateful anyway how Bebe’s been honoured so much in this school, and seeing the Prince and Princess support that and be here has been just amazing.”
William addressed the school’s students, emphasizing the importance of bravery, joy, and kindness. He highlighted the unity and resilience shown by the community in the aftermath of the tragic event, underscoring the power of love in overcoming adversity.
In addition to Churchtown Primary School, the royal couple also visited Farnborough Road Infant and Junior School, where they met with Elsie’s parents, Jenni and David Stancombe. A spokesperson from Kensington Palace commended the Southport community for coming together in the face of hardship, showcasing love, connection, and hope for the future.
This visit marked the second time William and Kate met with the families of the victims, following their initial support visit in October 2024. The tragic loss of Bebe, Alice, and Elsie continues to resonate within the community, and the royal couple’s presence offered solace and solidarity to those affected by the senseless violence perpetrated by Axel Rudakubana, who was sentenced to a minimum of 52 years in prison for the heinous murders.