Southport FC rallies community after tragic loss. A seaside town united by grief and hope. Read how the club became a beacon of strength.
New Delhi: The seaside town of Southport, known for its flower shows and family-friendly atmosphere, was plunged into shock and despair on July 29th. A horrific knife attack claimed the lives of three young girls attending a Taylor Swift-themed dance class and injured several others. The tragedy shook the community to its core, and what had been the joyful start to the school holidays turned into an unspeakable tragedy for the town.
Amidst the overwhelming grief, Southport Football Club emerged as a beacon of hope and unity for the town. The incident took place less than a mile away from the club. Southport Football Club opened the doors of help and transformed its stadium into a support centre, offering safe space and assistance to those affected by the tragedy.
“The football club became a focal point where people could go if they needed anything,” said Southport manager Jim Bentley. “The chairman is very much a people’s person. He is big on communities, relationships, friendship, and family.
” The club’s response was immediate and heartfelt. After violence broke out, Southport supporters helped clean up the spot and raised thousands of pounds for the survivors under treatment. Days after the attack, players and the staff laid flowers at the police cordon on Hart Street.
💐 The team visited Hart St before today’s game to pay.