By Andrew Brown Stand Up For Southport
Families can enjoy a Southport Community Day this Thursday (8th August 2024)
The event is FREE for all and takes place at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Preston New Road 10am-4pm on Thursday 8th August 2024, with all welcome.
It follows last week’s tragedy at The Hart Space in Southport in which three young girls were killed and several others injured.
The Southport Community Day will feature princesses and characters from Regally Royal Parties, The Party Princess and Ohana Party and Events.
There will also be a disco; a BBQ; arts and crafts; a bouncy castle; birds of prey; face and nail painting; donkey rides; an ice cream van; refreshments; and much more.
Also present will be a counsellor, a medic, police officers and security.
This event is being organised by members of the Southport community for the local community.
It is for all faiths, and those with no faith at all.
Debbie Sayers Fullwood said: “After the horrific incident in Southport on 29th July, many people have been left bewildered, anxious and devastated.
“Even with the amazing outpouring of love and support of volunteers, most agree that the peace of our beautiful town and the anticipation of a happy summertime, for many, has been snatched away.”
A local teacher, Laura Toby, who is a parent of two small children herself, described how she could not just sit back and let the children in our community feel too vulnerable to leave their own homes, too afraid to do things in the summer holiday, the time they have looked forward to for so long.
Laura said: ‘What started off as a small idea, quickly spread, due to the overwhelming generosity of the people and the businesses in our community. People have been so quick to give up their time, resources and expertise to contribute towards what I can only describe will be an incredible day for the children in our community.
“After everything that has happened across the country in the past week since the horrific, tragic event that shook our community last Monday, I am completely in awe at how the people of Southport have come together to provide the children in our community with an unforgettable day.”
There will be a counsellor available, a book of remembrance to sign and the chapel of the building will be open for quiet reflection. Police, medics and security will also be present.
Laura said: “People need to know that they are valued and safe and I have no doubt that this event will do that.
“I am so grateful to everyone that has offered anything towards this day. We really are stronger together.”
Kristina Cunningham, owner of Regally Royal Parties said: “Myself and my princess friends have gathered together to work alongside The Church of Latter-Day Saints and the amazing organiser Laura Toby to show our support for Southport and everyone who has been affected we will be bringing a little bit of magic to the fun day.
“We will be singing and dancing, there will be lots of bubbles and laughter, and three of your favourite princesses.
“Please come down and have the most wonderful day.
“Laura has been working closely with the activity organiser and members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints on Preston New Road, the fun day venue, and they are so excited for this event.
“They have even discussed the possibility of it being an annual event to honour those affected by Monday’s tragedy.
“The aim of this day is simply for the children of Southport to come together and have fun, to just be kids and to know that they are supported and loved and safe.”
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