August 21st 2023.
Pupils from Olivia Pratt-Korbel's school, St Margaret Mary's in Huyton, Merseyside, along with pupils from Malvern and Park Brow primary schools, have released a touching video to mark one year since the nine-year-old was shot and killed. The video includes a poem about the power of community spirit in the wake of Olivia's death.
The poem is written by Liverpool-born Curtis Watts, who worked with the pupils and the local community to develop the words. In the video, the children urge viewers to be kind to one another and to come together as a community. They say, "We could be family with no enemies. We'll never know if we don't try it." Olivia's mum Cheryl Korbel, who was hurt during the terrifying attack, closes the video with a heartfelt message, "Make sure we never deny it."
The video has been released to coincide with the launch of Evolve Liverpool and Knowsley, a Home Office-designed initiative to disrupt and deter organised crime groups. The scheme has already led to 379 arrests, three firearm seizures, and 44 premises searches between January and July this year, according to Merseyside Police.
Chief Superintendent Zoe Thornton, who is the head of local policing and oversees the Evolve work carried out by Merseyside Police, said: "A year ago today we were left shattered by the callous murder of Olivia. Olivia's death was the fourth death that month at the hands of reckless criminals prepared to wield a gun. The strength of Merseyside lies in its communities, and by harnessing that strength we can break the cycle of crime and make our neighbourhoods safer for generations to come."
Liverpool City Council leader councillor Liam Robinson added: "The senseless murder of Olivia made us ask that most uncomfortable of questions: what type of world are we living in, where our children aren't safe in their home? To turn a blind eye only serves those who seek to cause harm. And it unpicks that sense of togetherness."
Earlier this month, it was revealed a witness in Olivia's murder trial was attacked at his home by a masked knifeman. The masked assailant reportedly ‘kicked in the door’ of Nicholas McHale, a Merseyside man who previously testified in support of child-killer Thomas Cashman.
The poem and video released by the children of Olivia's school and others is a reminder of the power of kindness and community spirit in the face of tragedy. The children's message should not be forgotten, and their bravery and resilience should be celebrated.
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