PM pays tribute to boys killed in Solihull lake tragedy
During Prime Ministers Questions on Wednesday, Rishi Sunak paid tribute to the boys who died.
Last updated 14th Dec 2022
The Prime Minister addressed the tragedy at Babbs Mill lake in Kingshurst during PMQs in the Commons.
Mr Sunak told MPs: "Can I send my condolences to the family and friends of all of those who lost their lives? I also pay tribute to our emergency services - for their incredibly selfless actions.
"This whole event has shocked the whole community. I know the local MP will do all he can to support his constituents at this time."
Meriden MP Saqib Bhatti said: "The community in Kingshurst, which I represent, suffered an unimaginable tragedy earlier this week when four children fell through the ice at Babbs Mill lake.
"Three did not survive and one, aged just six, is fighting for his life. The community has come together and supporting one another over this tragedy."
It comes as the community in Kingshurst are continuing to come to terms with the tragic events which happened on Sunday.
The tight-knit community is still in shock since news broke on Monday that three boys - aged 11, 10 and eight - had died after being pulled from the water.
A fourth boy, aged six, remains in critical condition in hospital.
People have continued to leave floral tributes, balloons and teddies at a makeshift memorial near Babbs Mill lake.
On Tuesday, a group of police officers arrived at the scene and held a two-minute silence before marching away, to claps from on-lookers.
The force's officers were among the first rescuers on the scene and one had tried to punch through the ice to reach the youngsters.
Solihull Police also tweeted its "heartfelt thanks" to the community for its "overwhelming" support offered to all branches of the emergency services who attended the rescue and since.
Numerous bunches of flowers left near the scene included tributes from the emergency services, the NHS, local politicians, Marston Green FC and friends of the boys.
The messages on the hundreds of cards told their own story, with several addressed to the "Babbs Mill Boys".
One read: "You will never be forgotten boys, our three Kings of Kingshurst."
Several others had cards dedicated to Jack, while others paid tribute to another boy by name, saying: "To Thomas, The world will not be same without you" and "Thomas, rest in peace. Love from Earl".
Among the dozens of teddy bears, was one with the message: "RIP beautiful angels."
The scene at Babbs Mill is still closed off to the public by a large cordon and police tape.
West Midlands Police said earlier in a statement: "The six-year-old boy remains in hospital in a critical condition. We will release further updates as soon as we are able."