Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service confirmed yesterday that a woman and three children tragically lost their lives in a 'devastating' house fire in the Netherton area of Bootle in the early hours of Tuesday 22nd September.

Police have now confirmed that Elisha Brabin, 36, Leo Brabin, 16, Ellis Brabin, 8, and Prudence Brabin, 7, passed away following the fire on Stone Square.

In a tribute issued today on Wednesday 23 September, the family 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.

“The tragic loss of Elisha and our three precious children has left us heartbroken. They have all been taken from us far too soon. The loss we are experiencing is unimaginable, and the impact on our family will be felt forever.

“As we try to come to terms with this devastating tragedy, we kindly ask that our family's privacy is respected whilst we grieve and support one another through this incredibly difficult time. We would like to thank everyone for their kindness, support and understanding.”

Responding to the sad news, Sefton Council Leader, Cllr Marion Atkinson, said:

"On behalf of Sefton Council and the people of our borough, I want to express our deepest condolences.

“This is a truly devastating incident that I know will have shocked and saddened people across our communities. Our thoughts are with the family, their friends, neighbours and everyone affected by this heart-breaking tragedy.

“No words can ease the pain of such an unimaginable loss. However, I hope those who are mourning their loss can take some comfort from the support and compassion I know that people across Bootle and Sefton will show them.

“I would also like to thank the emergency services who responded to the incident and those who continue to support everyone affected.

“At this incredibly difficult time, we ask that the family's privacy is respected as they come to terms with their loss.

“The whole borough is grieving with them."

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.”

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.”

You can find details of support available in Sefton after shocking events such as this, here.