Tragedy struck the town of Southport on Monday morning when a horrific knife attack occurred at a Taylor Swift-themed dance workshop, leaving two children dead and 11 people injured.

The incident took place at the Hart Space Studios on Hart Street, just minutes before the workshop was about to finish. Armed police and paramedics rushed to the scene, where they found multiple victims, including nine children, who had been stabbed.

Six children are currently fighting for their lives in hospital, along with two adults who bravely tried to protect them from the attack. The community is in shock and mourning following the devastating incident.

Southport FC have confirmed the cancellation of their pre-season friendly against Morecambe on Tuesday

As a result of the tragedy, Southport FC has cancelled their pre-season friendly match against Morecambe, which was scheduled to take place on Tuesday evening. Instead, the club will open their clubhouse lounge to provide support to those affected by the incident.

A 17-year-old boy from the nearby village of Banks in Lancashire has been arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder. He is currently in custody and is being questioned by police.

Police in Southport, Merseyside, where a 17-year-old has been arrested and a knife has been seized after a horrific incident in the area that saw two children killed and 11 people hurt

The town’s National League side, Southport FC, expressed their condolences to the families of the victims and those affected by the tragedy, stating that they would provide support and a safe space for those in need.

King Charles and Queen Camilla also released a statement, saying they were “profoundly shocked” by the “utterly horrific incident” and extended their condolences to the families and loved ones of those affected.