Many tears were shed as flowers were laid, and tributes were paid to those who died, and those still fighting for life in the hospital in Southport.
Leading the vigil, the chaplain of Southport Hospital, Martin Abrams, addressed the gathering: “Tonight is about standing in solidarity during these tragic events. We stand together and we weep together.”
The Mayor of Sefton, Councillor June Burns, also spoke at the event. She shared her emotions upon visiting the scene of the tragedy and seeing the messages and tributes there. “It’s unbelievable that we find ourselves laying flowers for little girls who just wanted to dance,” she said.
Only the seagulls failed to observe an emotionally charged minute’s silence, as the people of Southport showed their respect and support for the families who are grieving, and those who face an agonizing wait for news of their loved ones in the hospital.
After the speeches and the silence, a single voice shouted out from the crowd and encapsulated the feelings of the people there. A single sentiment, shared by hundreds: “We all stick together.”
