Southport, a small seaside town in Merseyside, saw the arrival of far-right protestors following a stabbing attack that occurred at a Taylor Swift-themed event. The protestors, thought to be supporters of the English Defence League, disrupted a peaceful vigil held for the three children that lost their lives in the recent attack. The far-right group resorted to violence, throwing bricks at local mosques and setting cars alight, amongst other disturbances.
The stabbing at the dance and yoga workshop claimed the lives of three children and left five other children and two adults in critical condition. Merseyside Police have confirmed that a 17-year-old male, who was arrested on suspicion of murder, remains in custody. The police have also stated that the attack is being treated as an isolated incident and is not believed to be terror-related. Investigations are ongoing as to what the motivation for the attack was.
A peaceful vigil was held in the town to honour the victims, however, far-right protestors gravitated to the event causing violence and forcing clashes with the police. Several police officers were injured, some seriously, and police dogs were also hurt. The Muslim Council of Britain paid tribute to the victims and noted that a false rumour on the internet, blaming Muslims for the attack, has triggered the rise of Islamophobia in the area.
Meanwhile, Taylor Swift took to her Instagram Stories to express her shock and horror at the event. Swift fans have now launched a fundraiser to help raise funds for those affected by the tragedy and have so far raised over £120,000. The money raised is working with Alder Hey Children’s Hospital to assist in funerals for the two young victims who tragically lost their lives. All donations through the fundraising link go directly to the verified charity and will help make a difference to those impacted by this tragedy
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