Family centre leaving knife attack building

A family centre based in the Southport building where three children died in a knife attack will not return to the premises.

Hart Space, which ran groups for new mothers and families, had been based at the Norwood Business Centre in the town’s Hart Street.

But with help from Sefton Council, it will be moving permanently to The White House on the resort’s municipal golf links.

Hart Space founder Jenie Scholes said staff would “never forget” the events of July 29 and were “heartbroken” by what happened.

Ms Scholes said: “When the Hart Space opened five years ago, the ethos was to create a space where everyone felt welcome and supported, and could make friends for life, navigating parenthood.

“While we will never forget, and remain heartbroken by the events in July, our mission remains the same and is stronger than ever.”

Children had been taking part in a Taylor Swift-themed dance class at Hart Space when a knife attacker killed Bebe King, six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, and nine-year-old Alice Da Silva Aguiar.

Eight other children and two adults were injured, including Leanne Lucas, who was helping to run the class, and businessman John Haynes, who fought with the attacker.

The building is understood to have remained closed ever since.

Miss Scholes added: “Sefton Council have been what I can only describe as outstanding in supporting the dream of a space dedicated to love and kindness.

“We hope that everyone will support the team at The White House when we open our doors.”

Council leader Marion Atkinson said: “We are committed to doing whatever it takes to support our communities in the ongoing recovery of Southport.

“While this journey will take time, we are pleased to be able to have had this opportunity to support Jenie and the Hart Space family over a number of weeks so that they can resume their incredible work.”

In August, Axel Rudakubana, 18, was charged with the murders of Bebe, Elsie Dot and Alice, and 10 counts of attempted murder.

He was remanded in custody and is due to appear at Liverpool Crown Court on 25 October.