Balloons, bubbles and bright colours at funeral of girl killed in Southport attack

Coffin of Elsie Dot Stancombe travelled on horse-drawn carriage and carried up pink carpet towards balloon arch

The life of seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe, who was killed in the Southport knife attack, was celebrated with balloons, bubbles and her favourite Taylor Swift music at her funeral service.

Her family described her as a truly unforgettable" girl and a devoted Swiftie" who brought light, love and joy to so many lives", and said they wanted to mark the day with positivity, hope and love".

In a statement released on the morning of the funeral, they said: Elsie embraced life and it is with positivity, hope and love that we celebrate her life today on Elsie's Special Day'.