Bebe King, six, Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, were killed and several others were injured on 29 July.

The inquests opened today at Bootle Town Hall in Merseyside, but they have been adjourned to allow for criminal justice proceedings to take place.

Senior coroner Julie Goulding said it was "impossible to adequately articulate the devastating life-long effects the truly tragic events" have had on the families and friends of the victims.

Ms Goulding said the children "cruelly lost their young lives in such horrific circumstances".

"The three young children were full of life and energy and will be missed beyond any description my woefully inadequate words will attempt to describe," she said.

"I therefore offer my deepest condolences to Elsie's, Bebe's and Alice's parents, families and friends."

It comes after a church service for Alice took place on Tuesday afternoon, where the nine-year-old was described as "the most beautiful, strongest girl in the world".

Poignant speeches were read in English and Portuguese during the service at St Patrick's Church in Southport.

One of Alice's classmates said: "You will be in our hearts forever. You are the most kindest person in the world, and we know that you are the strongest girl we have ever met."

A member of staff from Alice's school read out messages from her classmates, including one that said: "Alice, so kind and caring, with a smile so bright, forever in our hearts."

The congregation gathered for a rendition of You Are My Sunshine outside the church following the ceremony.

Hundreds of flowers have been left at the scene of the attack in Hart Street and several vigils have taken place in the town to remember the girls.

Merseyside Police said all three families are being supported by specialist officers.

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Axel Rudakubana, who turns 18 today, has been charged with three counts of murder, 10 counts of attempted murder and possession of a bladed article in a public place.

Misinformation spread after the attack has sparked violent disorder across several towns and cities in the UK, resulting in around 400 people being detained.

Around 100 individuals have been charged, according to director of public prosecutions Stephen Parkinson.