Family set up charity in name of Elsie Dot

The family of a "most caring and generous little girl" who was killed in the Southport stabbing attacks have set up a charity in her honour.

Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, died alongside Bebe King, six, and Alice da Silva Aguiar, nine, after an attacker walked into a Taylor Swift-themed holiday club on 29 July.

Elsie's family have set up Elsie's Story, a charitable trust in the spirit of their daughter's "positivity, love for others and energy of life".

In a statement on Instagram, Elsie's family said: "Elsie was the most caring and generous little girl and we have promised to not let this awful tragedy be in vain, and creating this trust is the start of this".

It is hoped the trust will make grants in Elsie's name to assist young people and support others in the community.

"This will include community projects, medical care and support for individuals and families, good causes involving fun, and bringing the community together," their statement added.

• Southport chooses hope over hatred as it tries to heal
• A town in mourning - but its spirit is not broken
• Mourners told Elsie filled life with 'love and joy'

Elsie's parents, Jenni Stancombe and David Stancombe, said in their eulogy at her funeral on 23 August that she had "brought them nothing but happiness".

They said said she "spent every day just simply enjoying life with determination, persistence, love and kindness" and added that Elsie, a "devoted Swiftie", brought "light, love and joy to so many lives".

Enjoying a passion for cheerleading, Elsie was described as "an amazing little girl" whose "persistence was admirable".

Elsie's headteacher Jennifer Sephton, from Farnborough Road Infant School, described her as "such a caring and charismatic young lady who loved to please".

Listen to the best of BBC Radio Merseyside on Sounds and follow BBC Merseyside on Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can also send story ideas to [email protected] and via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.