Mother of girl killed in Southport attack got phone call from another mum which changed their lives

The parents of two children who were killed in a knife attack in Southport last summer have shared their feelings for the first time. They are trying to find hope during this very dark time.

The parents of six-year-old Bebe King and seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe spoke to the Sunday Times about their daughters, describing them as happy, confident, and loving.

They also expressed that the sentencing of the man who killed their daughters should not have been shown on TV. They want their girls to be remembered for who they were, not for the tragic way they died. The attacker, Axel Rudakubana, was sentenced to life in prison with a minimum of 52 years for killing Bebe, Elsie, and another nine-year-old girl, Alice da Silva Aguiar, on July 29.

Elsie’s uncle and Bebe’s father said the court hearing included too many details about the girls’ injuries, which was painful for them. They felt the public didn’t need to see those details on television.

The parents shared memories of their daughters’ personalities. Elsie’s mom said she was truly one of a kind, while her dad talked about her energy and love for adventure. Bebe’s parents remembered her kindness and ability to connect with everyone in a special way. They also recalled how excited the girls were for their dance class, which was taught by Leanne Lucas, who was also stabbed during the attack.

The parents described the horrifying moment they found out about the attack. Elsie’s mom got a call saying something terrible had happened, and she rushed to the scene. Bebe’s dad saw ambulances everywhere when he arrived.

The attack also affected the families’ other children. Elsie’s dad said he struggles with how to reassure his younger child after what happened.

In October, Prince William and Princess Kate visited Southport to thank the families and emergency workers. It was Princess Kate’s first public appearance after finishing chemotherapy, and the families found her words very meaningful.

The families support a public inquiry into the stabbings, announced by Home Secretary Yvette Cooper on January 21. None of the parents have been able to return to work since the attack.

Elsie’s parents have started a charity called *Elsie’s Story* to help children in need. They remember her as someone who found joy in everything, even simple tasks. Bebe’s parents said they want to live fully to honor their daughter’s positive and bubbly spirit. They are determined to find light in the darkness.