The funeral of Elsie Dot Stancombe, who died in the Southport attack, is under way – as her parents released a new photo of their “truly unforgettable” daughter.
The seven-year-old was one of three girls killed in a knife attack at a dance class in the Merseyside town last month.
Her family said they want today to be known as “Elsie’s Special Day” and a celebration of her life.
The service at St John’s Church in Birkdale began at 10am and mourners were asked to wear pastel or bright colours.
In a statement, her family said she “spent every day just simply enjoying life with determination, persistence, love and kindness”.
Elsie with her mum Jenni, dad David and three-year-old sister Rosie. Pic: Mersyside Police
“Elsie was an amazing little girl. She had the ability to light up any room that she entered, she was truly unforgettable,” said her family.
The new image shows her with her mum Jenni, dad David and three-year-old sister Rosie.
Elsie was killed as she and other children took part in a Taylor Swift-themed dance class during the school holidays on 29 July.
Mourners parents walked behind a horse-drawn carriage. Pic: PA
The order of service for the funeral of Elsie Dot Stancombe. Pic: PA
Her family said she loved to dance and was “a devoted Swifie” who also had a big passion for cheerleading.
“Her persistence was admirable, from completing a 3k run and 10k charity walk for her local hospice, as well as moving up books bands in school, everything she did she gave 100% and would never give up,” said the family.
Elsie Dot Stancombe, Alice da Silva Aguiar and Bebe King.
Pic: Merseyside Police
A tribute left by Elsie’s school in the days after the attack said she was “adored” by her friends and “kind and caring”.
Her family said the “overwhelming response” since her death showed the “light, love and joy” their daughter brought to people.
They also thanked the community for their love and support and said they were proud to live in Southport.
The King visited Southport earlier this week. Pic: PA
Elsie’s funeral follows those held for six-year-old Bebe King last week and nine-year-old Alice da Silva Aguiar earlier in August.
An 18-year-old, Axel Rudakubana, has been charged with murder and attempted murder over the attack.
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The King visited Southport earlier this week and met some of the children who survived the attack.
He also looked at the sea of tributes outside the town hall and thanked emergency services who responded to the attack.
The tragedy sparked anti-immigration protests, riots and counter-protests in town and cities after false information circulated that the attacker was an illegal immigrant.