Schools pay heartbreaking tributes to children killed in Bootle house fire - 'brought joy to everyone'

Schools pay heartbreaking tributes to children killed in Bootle house fire - 'brought joy to everyone' The devastating blaze killed Elisha Brabin, along with three children Prudence, seven, Ellis, eight, and Leo, 16 Headteachers at schools attended by three children who tragically died in a house fire in Bootle have issued heartbreaking tributes to their "cherished" pupils. Leo Brabin, 16, Ellis Brabin, eight, and Prudence Brabin, seven, died alongside their mum, Elisha Brabin, 36, during the devastating blaze on Stone Square in the Merseyside town in the early hours of Tuesday. Prudence, known by many as Pru, went to Acre View School in Lydiate, while Ellis was a pupil at St Elizabeth's Pimary School in Litherland. Leo attended Presfield School in Southport, with headteachers from each of the three schools sharing tributes. Liz Wynne, Headteacher of Acre View School said: “Pru brought joy to everyone around her with her bright personality, incredible imagination, and remarkable memory. "Her enthusiasm for life shone through in everything she did, especially when dancing and taking part in creative craft activities, which she enjoyed immensely. Known for her friendly nature and warm smile, Pru made a positive impact on all those who had the privilege of knowing her. "She valued her family greatly and often spoke about them with love and pride. She was cherished by both pupils and staff, who will remember her kindness, happiness, and the special light she brought to our school every day. "We will continue to support pupils and staff during this challenging time. Our thoughts remain with Pru’s family and everyone who knew and loved her." Liam Daniels, Headteacher of St Elizabeth’s R C Primary School, said: “From the moment Ellis joined St Elizabeth’s, he immediately made a positive impact on everyone he encountered and formed wonderful bonds with all pupils and staff. While he had such a gentle nature, Ellis also could show great determination and always gave his very best in everything he did, both in and beyond the classroom. "He was exceptionally polite, kind, and well-mannered, and we always enjoyed seeing the fantastic artwork he was so proud to share with us. We will all deeply miss hearing him chat about the activities he enjoyed outside school, particularly the vegetables he was growing in his garden, which brought him great happiness and pride. "He was a much-loved member of our school community, and his loss will be deeply felt by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be remembered with great affection. We will continue to support our pupils and staff during this difficult time, and our thoughts remain with his family and all those who loved him." Lucy McLoughghlin, Head Teacher of Presfield School, said: "Leo was a gentle, innocent and beautiful soul who saw the world in such a unique and positive light, approaching it with a deep sense of awe and wonder. He took great pride in helping his peers and was at his happiest enjoying his school residentials. "Leo was a core member of Presfield's community with his infectious smile, genuine kindness and love for learning he demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination, overcoming challenges and growing into a mature and thoughtful young man. Leo has left an immeasurable impact on Presfield and we will miss him very much. "We continue to support pupils and staff during this difficult time Our thoughts remain with Leo's family and everyone who knew and loved him." Elisha's husband, Kane Stephenson, 34, smashed windows as he desperately tried to rescue his family - but suffered serious burns as he was beaten back by the flames. He was taken to hospital for treatment. Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service said none of the four victims showed any signs of life. Emergency services found the semi-detached house "well alight on arrival". A statement from the family released yesterday said: "Our whole family is devastated by the loss of Elisha, Leo, Ellis and Prudence. "Elisha was our beloved daughter, wife, mother, sister, aunty, niece and cousin. She was a devoted and loving mother who lived for her children. They were her whole world, and she meant everything to us. "Our beautiful babies, Leo, Ellis and Prudence, were loved beyond measure and brought so much joy, happiness and love to our family. They filled our lives with laughter and precious memories that we will cherish forever."