Southport stabbings: Taylor Swift issues statement after 'horror' attack on children's dance class

Nine other children sustained injuries after a knife attacker targeted the class at the Hart Space in Southport.

Two adults were also injured during the attack.

In her social media update, Swift said: "The horror of yesterday's attack in Southport is washing over me continuously and I'm just completely in shock.

"The loss of life and innocence, and the horrendous trauma inflicted on everyone who was there, the families and first responders.

"These were just little kids at a dance class. I am at a complete loss for how to ever convey my sympathies to these families."

Swift visited Merseyside during her Eras Tour stint in the UK, selling out the home of Liverpool FC Anfield.

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A 17-year-old boy from Banks in Lancashire, born in Cardiff, has been arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder following yesterday's attack.

The Swift-themed yoga and dance workshop organised by Enlighten, a yoga studio for children, was set to take place from 10am to 12pm.

Two teachers led the class, with posters suggesting the workshop was intended for children aged between six and 11.

Merseyside Police received an emergency call reporting an incident at an address on Hart Street at 11.47am.

North West Ambulance Service responded to reports of a stabbing just one minute later.

Emergency services quickly declared a "major incident", as 13 ambulances and an air ambulance were dispatched to the scene.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper laid a wreath at the scene alongside local MP Patrick Hurley.

Cooper also met with local officials and first responders.