24/07/2026
An Open Letter to Southport:
As we approach July 29th, 2026, our thoughts remain with the families of Alice, Bebe & Elsie, everyone injured physically and psychologically, their families and their loved ones and all those whose lives were changed that day.
We know this will be an incredibly difficult time and many of you will be wondering how best to mark the date.
Your compassion and support continues to be a source of comfort to all affected and unwavering acts of kindness have meant more than words can express.
This period is incredibly difficult for everyone whose lives were affected by the events of the day, including those who rushed to support and our emergency responders.
They remain always in our thoughts.
It is the solidarity you continue to show as a community which will again shine bright in the coming weeks and we want everyone to know there has been an incredible amount of consideration, thought and planning given to how we all mark the date of July 29th going forward.
In respect of this deeply personal time, we ask that no floral tributes be laid particularly at either Hart Street or at school settings.
Instead we are encouraging people to consider donating to local causes across Southport in lieu of floral tributes.
There will also be a three minutes silence held across Southport at 3pm on Wednesday, July 29th 2026, to remember everyone affected.
This silence will be recognised by Sefton Council and other public bodies and we ask everyone to join in this silence with us, wherever you find yourself.
Our colleagues have been working with faith and community leaders to once again identify local spaces where you can go, within your own neighbourhoods, to say a prayer, light a candle, speak to someone or spend a quiet moment reflecting in whatever way feels right for you.
We fully understand that many of us still need to grieve and to acknowledge the day and there is no right or wrong way to do this. Whether you choose to attend a reflective space, observe the silence, spend time with loved ones, or simply take a quiet moment to yourself, we encourage everyone to do whatever feels most appropriate to you.
Flags will also be lowered to half-mast on all public buildings in Sefton.
As always, support remains available to anyone affected. Professionals will be available at the various local reflective spaces to offer help and guidance to anyone who may need it.
You can access support by visiting www.sefton.gov.uk/southporttogether
Thank you for your understanding.
