Morecambe v Southport football match cancelled

A pre-season friendly has been cancelled as Morecambe FC paid tribute to the victims of the Southport knife attack.

Morecambe were due to play at their former manager Jim Bentley's Southport tonight (July 30).

The game has been called off due to the terrible events in Southport on Monday, in which two children lost their lives and nine other people were injured.

"Due to the horrific events which have taken place in Southport today, Tuesday night’s friendly has been cancelled," said a statement from Morecambe FC.

"Everybody at Morecambe Football Club sends their deepest condolences to the victims, their families and anyone affected at this unimaginably difficult time."

A statement from Southport FC said on Monday: "Given the tragic events of today and following extensive engagement with relevant local stakeholders we have taken the decision to cancel tomorrow night's pre-season friendly with Morecambe FC out of respect to those who have so tragically lost their lives and to those who will be deeply impacted by this horrible tragedy.

"The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Southport FC are with those affected and we extend our deepest condolences to all those impacted."

Two children were killed and nine injured, six critically, in a knife attack at a children's dance workshop in Southport on Monday.

*The Church of the Ascension in Torrisholme will be open from 6.30pm on Tuesday for people who wish to light candles, reflect and pray, and there will be a short Act of Remembrance at 7.30pm.