Councillor Marion Atkinson, Leader of Sefton Council, said: “Our thoughts are with the families of Alice, Bebe and Elsie who will remain at the heart of everything we do. 

The community is still hurting and shocked by what happened last summer but there is a feeling of relief that the guilty plea entered this week means that those affected don’t have to relive what happened in a public trial. 

We welcome the Government’s announcement of a public inquiry – it's important that we understand the events that led to this tragedy and we hope this will help as part of the healing process for our community and that lessons can be learned. 

The misinformation spread across the country has only served to exacerbate the hurt our community has felt. 

Over the last few months we’ve seen everyone come together and show the love and support we have for each other here in Sefton – we all want to look to a more positive future – and it is important we continue to provide that support to everyone who needs it. 

This is one evil individual who has committed an unspeakable crime but I always reflect on the thousands of people who came out to show their love and support at the vigil in Southport. That is our community here in Sefton and we will not let one person’s actions break us apart. 

The Prime Minister has praised the town of Southport for how we have come together and I have seen this community spirit firsthand – we cannot lose sight of how important this has been. 

As I said over the summer we will do whatever it takes and if anyone needs our support we are here to help.”