Alice da Silva Aguiar’s funeral took place in St. Patrick’s Church in Southport, where hundreds of mourners gathered to pay their respects. The emotional ceremony was attended by Merseyside Police Chief Constable Serena Kennedy, who addressed Alice’s parents, urging an end to violence on the streets following the tragic events. Kennedy expressed hope that those involved in the riots would feel shame for the pain they caused the grieving family.
The funeral procession was a somber event, with Alice’s coffin adorned in pink flowers and carried in a white horse-drawn carriage. Mourners lined the streets in a show of support and respect for the nine-year-old victim of the Southport stabbings. Alice’s parents, Sergio and Alexandra, shared heartfelt speeches, describing their daughter as a kind, respectful, and loving child with a bright future ahead of her.
Alice’s headteacher, Jinnie Payne, paid tribute to the young girl’s positive qualities, highlighting her smile, politeness, and enthusiasm for life. Payne described Alice as a peacemaker and a friend to all, showcasing her natural ability to bring joy to those around her. The community of Southport came together to honor Alice’s memory, with gestures of support and kindness shown to the grieving family.
In the wake of the riots that followed the Southport stabbings, efforts are being made to address the spread of misinformation online. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson announced plans to incorporate lessons on spotting fake news and disinformation into the school curriculum. The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, condemned the racist and anti-Muslim sentiments fueling the unrest, calling on Christians to reject far-right ideologies.
As charges are brought against individuals involved in the riots, including a 15-year-old boy in Sunderland, the police continue to work towards justice and community safety. The events surrounding Alice da Silva Aguiar’s funeral serve as a reminder of the importance of unity, compassion, and peaceful resolution in the face of tragedy. The community of Southport remains resilient in the face of adversity, coming together to honor the memory of a young life lost too soon.
