Prince and Princess of Wales Meet Bereaved Southport Families and Brave Yoga Teacher Leanne Lucas

Today, the Prince and Princess of Wales made a special visit to Southport, meeting with bereaved families and heroic yoga teacher Leanne Lucas. This was Princess Catherine’s first public engagement since her recent cancer diagnosis, making it an emotional and poignant visit for everyone involved.

Elsie Dot Stancombe,

Alice Da Silva Aguiar and Bebe King

The royal couple traveled to Southport to offer their support and condolences to the families of Alice Da Silva Aguiar, Elsie Dot Stancombe, and Bebe King. The girls tragically lost their lives in the Taylor Swift-themed dance class attack on July 29. During their visit, Prince William and Princess Catherine also spent time with Leanne Lucas, the courageous yoga teacher who was gravely injured while shielding her young students from harm.

Emergency services were called to the scene on Hart Street that day, where they faced a devastating situation. Three children lost their lives, and ten others, including eight children and two adults, were injured in the horrific incident. Today, William and Catherine met with emergency responders at the Southport Community Centre on Norwood Road, where they listened to their harrowing accounts and acknowledged the incredible bravery and professionalism displayed on that dark day.

Earlier in the day, the couple held a private meeting with the families and Leanne. This was a deeply personal moment, providing a space for shared grief, healing, and reflection. Leanne, who is still recovering from her life-threatening injuries, was unable to meet King Charles during his visit in August. Today, however, she was finally able to meet the Prince and Princess of Wales, who expressed their admiration and gratitude for her courage and resilience.

King Charles’ visit last month saw him pay his respects at The Atkinson in Southport town centre, where many had gathered to leave flowers and messages of support for the victims. He also spent time meeting with families and emergency responders at the Southport Community Fire Station.

The Prince and Princess of Wales have a strong connection to Merseyside, having last visited the region in January 2023 for the official opening of the new Royal Liverpool University Hospital. Today’s visit was a reminder of their ongoing commitment to supporting communities in times of need, offering comfort and compassion to those affected by unimaginable loss.

The visit brought a sense of unity and hope to Southport, as the community continues to come together in the aftermath of the tragedy. The support shown by the royal family has been deeply appreciated by all, providing a source of strength and solidarity during this challenging time.