Elsie's parents support for 'crucial' blood drive

The family has set up a charity in Elsie's name

The mother of a seven-year-old girl who was murdered in the Southport knife attacks has praised the "inspiring" people who donated "crucial" blood during a drive in the town.

Elsie Dot Stancombe was one of three girls killed in the attacks during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in the Merseyside town on 29 July.

Her parents, Jenni and Dave, joined 100 people, including supporters of their charity Elsie's Story, at a session at St John Stone Church to highlight the need for blood donations for emergencies.

Mrs Stancombe said: "Although the outcome for Elsie was tragically different, we know that blood transfusions were crucial for many of those injured that day."

"NHS Blood and Transplant made 10 emergency deliveries of blood to hospitals treating the casualties and that quick response meant the life-saving blood was available for everyone who needed it," she said.

"Following a conversation with a parent of a child who was injured that day, it felt really important that Elsie's Story supported this event."

Jenni and Dave Stancombe attended the blood donation session in Southport

She added the charity aimed to "create a legacy of love and hope" and the session was "so uplifting and inspiring".

Among the NHS Blood and Transplant staff supporting the session were two members of the transport team based at the Liverpool blood centre who played a critical role in the emergency response in Southport.

Stephen Kuypers and Dave Oxton were among a team of drivers who made the 10 emergency blue-light deliveries of blood supplies in three hours to four hospitals, including Alder Hey Children's Hospital.

Stephen Kuypers is among members of a team that delivers blood to hospitals in emergencies

Mr Kuypers said: "Hospital colleagues later told us that the quick response of the Liverpool transport team helped ensure that the patients received the best possible care.

"The was a very rewarding message to receive."

He donated his blood as he is O negative - the blood type most needed for emergencies as it can be given to anyone.

NHS Blood and Transplant chief executive Dr Jo Farrar said: "It is wonderful to see how many people have been inspired by Elsie's Story to give blood, and we are thankful to Elsie's brave parents Jenni and Dave for their incredible support.

"Because each donation can help up to three adults or six children, 300 lives or more will be saved and improved in Elsie's memory."