The owner issued a heartfelt message to the community and said support has “meant the world”
The children’s space where three schoolgirls were killed in a mass stabbing has welcomed people into the building for the first time since the attack. The Hart Space was where three children, Elsie Dot Stancombe, Alice Da Silva Aguiar and Bebe King were fatally stabbed, along with eight children and two adults being hospitalised with injuries, on Monday, July 29.
A small industrial estate, where the company operates, was shut off for several weeks following the attack and The Hart Space remains shut to the public. Owner Jenie Scholes took to social media to share the news that local faith leaders had been invited into the building for a blessing on Tuesday, September 10.
Writing on The Hart Space Facebook page, Jenie said: “The last few weeks have been incredibly hard for everyone in our community and wider. We would like to thank everyone for all their kind words, continued support and love, it has not gone unnoticed and has meant the world to us.
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“On Tuesday 10th September, The Hart Space welcomed multi faith leaders for a blessing. We were joined by Reverend Rebecca Clarke, Imam Ibrahim Hussein, Rabbi Saunders, his sons Yonni and Jonathan, Adrian Fletcher, Senior Warden Southport Hebrew Congregation, his wife Ghislaine and Norwood Ward Cllr Greg Myers.
“While the blessing was held in private, we feel it’s important to show how once more our community is coming together to support each other, regardless of faith, religion or beliefs. The blessing was incredibly moving and focused on love, support, community and healing.
“While the road in front of us is long and our hearts are broken for the families and everyone who knew Elsie, Alice and Bebe, the children who attended the workshop, Leanne, Heidi, John and all those affected, our community is strong and we will continue to support each other to heal.
“The Hart Space remains closed to the public.”
Jenie previously posted on the page in the aftermath of the attack on Wednesday, August 21, when she sent her condolences to those affected and the emergency service responders who attended the scene on the day. The post continued to say: “Over the last few weeks, I have seen what can only be described as an overwhelming sense of love, support, and communal grief for what has happened.
“We are a strong little community, and I would like to thank everyone for supporting those involved. The Hart Space will remain closed to the public until further notice, so Merseyside Police can continue their investigation, and our community can try and heal and to respect those involved. Thank you for all the messages, love, and support over the last few weeks.”
