Alex, mother of Alice, speaks about the impact of her murder in Southport and the community’s support after tragedy.
Alice and two other girls died last July. Axel Rudakubana, 17, stabbed them. They were at a dance class that was Taylor Swift themed.
Alice’s father made a statement in court. He said life without Alice is just numbness. Alex now shares her heartbreak publicly, finding that Southport now feels like her true home.
Alex said everyone has been incredibly kind, surpassing their expectations. People have been very kind. Southport feels like home to Alex now, and she feels like she doesn’t need to go back.
Alex remembered Alice with her friend Sarah. Sarah’s daughter, Briar, was Alice’s best friend. They went to Churchtown Primary School together.
Alice started ballet very young, at 16 months old, and continued with it for many years. She danced at Southport Dance Academy, where Heidi Liddle was her ballet teacher.
Alice did street dance until Heidi left. Then she did ballet on Saturdays. She also did cheerleading and was in the school choir.
Heidi and Leanne Lucas were the adults present during the attack. Leanne shielded kids while she got stabbed. Jonathan Hayes also got stabbed that day, as he rushed from his office nearby. Eight other children were hurt badly.
Alex described their normal family life, noting that they spent weekends together as a family. They visited friends and ate out. They were happy as a family of three.
Rudakubana is in prison now. Alex now focuses on Alice’s legacy and plans projects to remember her daughter, which she will share soon.
Sarah is helping Alex with fitness sessions. Sarah owns a gym in Southport, PWR BOX, recognizing that Alex deserves support for her mental health.
Sarah remembers Alice fondly, remarking that Alice would be ten years old now. She remembers Alice from school and recalls that Alice was happy and funny.
Alex said Alice and Briar called before discos, discussing what outfits they would wear. Their outfits all had to be the same.
Alex and Sergio moved to Southport in 2010. Sergio’s brother lived nearby in the area, so they settled in Marshside. Alice saw her class as family.
Alex considers Southport is her home now and clarified that she does not intend to return to Portugal, even though many of her relatives still live there.
Southport people offered incredible help, exceeding Alex’s expectations. People were very kind to them. Southport feels like a real home for her.
Sarah will box at The Grand in Southport on February 22, doing it in Alice’s name. Sarah has raised over two thousand pounds, and this money will help Alice’s parents.