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Taylor Swift joins tributes after Southport attack

flowers at scene
  • Published

Taylor Swift has paid tribute to those affected by an attack at a dance and yoga group in Southport.

Twenty-five children were at an event themed around the singer's music on Monday 29 July.

Eleven adults and children were hurt in the attack, and sadly three have died.

Those who were injured are being looked after by expert doctors at Alder Hey Hospital in Liverpool and the Royal Manchester Children's Hospital - two of the UK's leading hospitals that specialise in helping young people.

Messages of support to those affected, and to the local community, have also been shared by the Prime Minister and King Charles.

A 17-year-old was arrested by police officers, who say they aren't looking for anyone else.

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Advice if you're upset by the news

What have people said about what happened?

In the days following the incident, the area remained closed off by police to make sure people were safe and local people continued to leave tributes including flowers, dolls, stuffed toys, a poem and a card signed "love - Southport".

In a message, the King said he and his wife were "profoundly shocked" to hear about what happened.

He added: "We send our most heartfelt condolences, prayers and deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones of those who have so tragically lost their lives."

Image source, PA Media
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The area was closed off by police and the emergency service to make sure people are safe

Prince William and Princess Catherine said they sent their "love, thoughts and prayers to all those involved".

They also thanked the emergency services who showed "compassion and professionalism when your community needed you most."

Taylor Swift said she was in shock about what happened, adding that she was "at a complete loss" for how to ever convey her sympathies to the families affected.

A fundraising page for Alder Hey hospital - organised by two Taylor Swift fans - has raised more than 拢300,000.

Hearing news that is upsetting

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Local people have been leaving flowers and tributes.

Sometimes things that happen in the world can make us sad, anxious or confused.

If you are upset by what you hear in the news, it's important to know that you are not the only one and it's OK to have those feelings.

Although people might spend a lot of time talking about what has happened, it is still very unlikely that events like this will affect you or your family.

Image source, Getty Images
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It's important to talk to an adult you trust if you are feeling worried

It's important to understand that upsetting stories are in the news because they are rare - they don't happen very often.

And remember, if this story - or any news - upsets you, talk to an adult you trust about it. It's important to share what is troubling you.

If you want more advice, you can find more here.