The parents of six-year-old Bebe King, who died after being stabbed in Southport, have paid tribute to their "shimmering star".
Lauren and Ben King said that their "world was shattered" on July 29 when Bebe was killed alongside two other children during an organised dance class at the Hart Space in Southport, Merseyside.
And they spoke of their pride in the "incredible strength and courage" of Bebe's older sister, Genie, who was also at the dance class and witnessed the horror that unfolded.
The Kings said they were "so proud" of Genie, who managed to escape the dance venue where the attack took place, adding that they would continue to support her as they "navigate this painful journey together as a family".
Bebe's parents paid tribute to their "shimmering star"
Merseyside Police
Further on in the statement, released through Merseyside Police, the family paid tribute to the others involved in the tragedy and expressed their wishes for "strength and healing" in the days to come.
Alongside Bebe, two other children - Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven - were killed in the attack, while eight more children and two adults were injured.
Though in a positive development just days ago, police confirmed that all the injured children had been discharged from hospital.
The family said: "Our thoughts are also with everyone else involved in this tragedy and all those who were injured.
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Bebe King, six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine, (left to right)PA"We hope that they find strength and healing in the days ahead. To the children who witnessed this terrible event, we send our love and hope that they too can begin to heal, surrounded by the care and support of those who love them."
The family also drew attention to the Southport community, which had come together both in the aftermath of the stabbing and the disorder which followed, as well as the emergency services.
Members of the public had formed vigils on the day after the attack as well as on August 5, with well-wishers laying floral tributes outside Southport's town hall.
The Kings said: "To our community, friends, and strangers who have shown us such love: thank you.
The community has come together to lay flowers outside Southport's town hall as a memorial
PA
A vigil for the victims of the attack coalesced in Southport on August 5
PA
"Your messages, your tributes, and your presence have meant the world to us and have helped us find some solace in our grief.
"We are also thinking of Elsie and Alice’s families, who are sharing in this unimaginable loss, and we hold them close in our hearts.
"To the emergency services, who acted with such care and professionalism on that terrible day: thank you.
"Your support has continued as you have looked after our family with compassion and dedication, and we will forever be grateful for the way you have helped us through this harrowing time."
