King Charles has condemned the Southport stabbings, which saw the death of two children and nine others injured, as "utterly horrific".

A 17-year-old boy from Banks in Lancashire remains in police custody following the stabbings - but the incident is not being treated as terror-related.

In a statement, the monarch said: "My wife and I have been profoundly shocked to hear of the utterly horrific incident in Southport today.

"We send our most heartfelt condolences, prayers and deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones of those who have so tragically lost their lives, and to all those affected by this appalling attack."

King Charles issues statement following Southport attack that saw two children killed and nine others injuredGetty/PA

Six of the children injured are in a critical condition. Two adults are also in critical condition, who police believe were "bravely trying to protect the children who were being attacked".

The children are understood to have been taking part in a sold-out Taylor Swift-themed class at a dance centre in the town when the attack was launched.

Officers were called to reports of a knife attack at an address in Southport at 11.47am.

Chief Constable Kennedy said that when they arrived, they were "shocked to find" several children had been "subjected to a ferocious attack and had suffered serious injuries".