Last week, Prince William and Princess Kate made an emotional visit to Southport just over a year after the brutal murders of three children in July 2024.
The Prince and Princess of Wales met with families of the victims; Elsie Dot Stancombe, Bebe King, and Alice da Silva, who died whilst attending a Taylor Swift dance class in the town.
Alongside privately meeting families of the bereaved, they also spoke to the teacher, Leanne Lucas, who ran the event, and teaching assistant Heidi Liddle who protected the children from attacker Axel Rudakubana.
Furthermore, Prince William gave a speech at a new playground at Churchtown Primary School that was created in memory of Alice and Bebe.
William, 43, told the people of Southport to “be brave” and to “move forward with grace and fortitude”. He added: “The tragic events that unfolded in this town last year still remain difficult to comprehend.
“This playground is a symbol of how the community have come together to create such a positive place for the pupils of this school – a symbol of remembrance and resilience, a testament that love will always overcome tragedy.
“To Alex and Sergio, Lauren and Ben, Jenni and David – 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.”
Speaking to Hello! Magazine about William and Kate’s visit, and how they’re trying to use their influence to make a long term impact by connecting with people around the UK, royal author Robert Jobson said it wasn’t a one off for the future King, but part of a theme.
He told the publication: “It’s a distinct thing he does, because it still has a royal edge, but it feels personal. They’ve always shown love and compassion, but there’s a clear sense of them really feeling the pain of the people.”
Robert’s comments about William comes as focus increasingly turns to what he will be like as a monarch when his father King Charles eventually dies, after becoming the oldest person in British history to ascend to the throne.
Although the King is still very much alive following his diagnosis with an unspecified form of cancer, royal experts are observing William as he takes on further duties.
Speaking to the Mirror about the matter, royal commentator Katie Nicholl said: “The crown will never have felt closer to the Prince than it does now.
“His father’s illness has been a stark reminder that it’s his turn next, and it may not be too far in the distant future.”