The tragic loss of Alice da Silva Aguiar, along with two other young girls, in a horrifying attack at a dance class in Southport has left an indelible mark on her community. In the wake of this devastating event, Alice’s father, Sergio Aguiar, has chosen to channel his grief into a meaningful tribute to his daughter’s memory. ‘
He has announced that he will run the London Marathon to help raise funds for a new play area at Churchtown Primary School, where Alice and her friend Bebe King, another victim of the attack, were students. This initiative aims to create a lasting legacy for Alice and Bebe, offering joy and positivity to future generations of students.
A Playground to Honor Alice’s Memory
Alice da Silva Aguiar was a bright, enthusiastic child with an infectious love for dancing. Her passion for movement and performance was evident from an early age, and her parents fondly recall her boundless energy and joy.
Recognizing the need for a positive tribute to Alice, her parents and Churchtown Primary School have launched an ambitious plan to build a state-of-the-art play area in her honor.
The proposed facility will replace the existing concrete space with interactive climbing frames, an indoor/outdoor library, and a dedicated performance stage—an element particularly close to Alice’s heart.
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Alice’s mother, Alex Aguiar, emphasized the significance of the performance stage, stating that Alice had been dancing since she was just 16 months old and had always dreamed of a place where she could express herself freely.
The parents of Alice Aguiar, one of the girls killed at a dance class in Southport, have said their daughter was "born to be a star".
— BBC Breakfast (@BBCBreakfast) February 20, 2025
Sergio and Alex told #BBCBreakfast they are fundraising for a new playground, which will include a stage, at Churchtown Primary School, where… pic.twitter.com/2sXRjQLmaD
She believes that the new play area will not only honor her daughter’s memory but also provide a joyful and creative space for other children, allowing them to experience the same happiness that Alice found in her performances. The play area is expected to be a place of laughter, learning, and imagination—embodying the spirit of the young girl who inspired it.
The London Marathon Challenge
Sergio Aguiar has taken on the remarkable challenge of running the London Marathon in April as part of the fundraising effort for the playground.
This grueling 26.2-mile race is a testament to his dedication to keeping Alice’s memory alive in a way that benefits other children. Alongside him, Churchtown Primary School’s headteacher, Jinnie Payne, and several members of the teaching staff will also participate in the marathon to support the cause.
In a heartfelt statement, Mr. Aguiar expressed his motivation for taking on the marathon, saying, “I’m running not just for Alice but also for everyone who was affected by last year’s tragedy.”
He spoke of Alice’s deep love for school and her unwavering commitment to education, exemplified by her perfect attendance record. This commitment to learning and growth is reflected in the vision for the new playground—a place that will provide children with a safe, stimulating environment to play and develop their creativity.
Ms. Payne echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the play area will be a beacon of positivity for the school community. “For the children, it’s joy, it’s fun, it’s positivity,” she said.
“It brings a sense of community, and that is exactly what we need right now.” She also noted that when she and her colleagues run the marathon, they will carry Alice and Bebe in their hearts, drawing strength from their memories to push through to the finish line.
A Community United in Tribute
The initiative to build the play area has been met with overwhelming support from the Southport community. Thousands of tributes have been left at the site of the tragic attack, reflecting the deep sorrow and solidarity felt by those who knew Alice, Bebe, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, the third young victim. This project serves as a way for the community to come together and create something positive from an unspeakable tragedy.
Beyond the London Marathon, other fundraising events are planned, including the Blackpool Festival of Running, in which Churchtown Primary staff will participate.
Every effort contributes to the ambitious goal of raising £250,000 to ensure the playground becomes a reality. With its innovative design and dedication to fostering joy and creativity, the play area will serve as a lasting tribute to Alice and her friends.
Alice da Silva Aguiar’s story is one of immense tragedy, but through the resilience and love of her parents, teachers, and community, her legacy will live on in the laughter and play of future generations.
As Sergio Aguiar prepares to take on the challenge of the London Marathon, he carries with him not just the memory of his beloved daughter but the hope that her spirit will continue to inspire and uplift those around her.
let’s enjoy few years on earth with peace and happiness….✍🏼🙏