Kate Middleton and Prince William’s touching tribute in Southport

Prince William and Princess Kate made a powerful trip to Southport on September 23. 

They left the town with not only memories but matching mementos that symbolised resilience, love, and remembrance.

The visit came more than a year after the devastating knife attack at a Taylor Swift themed dance class that claimed the lives of three young girls.

Here are the most moving highlights from their visit:

1. Unannounced visit to a grieving community

The Prince and Princess of Wales, traveled to the small town near Liverpool to meet families, schoolchildren, and community members still healing from the tragedy of July 29, 2024.

That day, six year old Bebe King, seven year old Elsie Dot Stancombe, and nine year old Alice Dasilva Aguiar were fatally attacked at the Hart Space dance studio.

2. Gift of matching bracelets in Bebe’s memory

During their visit, William and Kate received a touching gift from Lauren King, mother of Bebe. She presented them with friendship bracelets spelling out “Bebe’s Hive” the name of a grief support charity created in her daughter’s honour.

“It meant everything,” Lauren told GB News of her moment with the royal couple. “It was really special.”

She added, “I think we’re really grateful anyway how Bebe’s been honored so much in this school, and seeing the prince and princess support that and be here has been just amazing.”

3. Wearing their bracelets with pride

Kate and William didn’t just accept the bracelets, they wore them for the rest of their visit. The royal couple could be seen sporting the mementos as they toured Churchtown Primary School, which Bebe and Alice once attended.

4. Moving message to families and children

William directly addressed the students and parents impacted by the attack, reminding them of their strength and resilience, “Many lives were changed on that terrible day – including countless members of this school community. Bebe, Alice and Elsie’s friends and classmates have come together to support each other and remember the girls in their own way. To everyone impacted on that day, you will never be forgotten. Enjoy this playground. Be brave, be joyful and be kind.”

Turning to the grieving parents, he added, “You are parents united in grief. You have faced such horror — but from that, you move forward with grace and fortitude, creating the most remarkable legacies for your girls. We will always be here to support you.”