THE Southport violence is a “stark and chilling reminder that hateful rhetoric inspires hateful acts,” campaigners warned today as Britain marked a year since the attack that led to anti-immigrant riots across England.

The Merseyside town held a three-minute silence in tribute to the three young victims of Axel Rudakubana’s murderous attack on a Taylor Swift-themed dance class.

Freedom from Torture’s Natasha Tsangarides said: “The awful scenes of violence are a stark and chilling reminder that hateful rhetoric inspires hateful acts. 

“But we also know that the majority of people in this country welcome refugees and we witnessed a nationwide expression of compassion following the summer riots last year.”

Police have been monitoring social media for attempts to stir up disorder in and around Southport, fearing a repeat of the anti-immigrant riots after the fatal stabbings of Alice da Silva Aguiar, nine, Bebe King, six, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven.

Far-rights groups have already been targeting asylum-seeker accommodations this year over another alleged incident involving a migrant, including in Epping, Essex.

Two more men were charged with violent disorder today over their actions on July 17 at the Bell Hotel.

On the anniversary of the killings, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said that the people of Southport “have shown Britain the meaning of community,” adding: “The nation wants to put its arms around you all. 

“We will come together today to show our sorrow and solidarity. But also to show our determination to uphold the true legacy of Bebe, Alice and Elsie — one of joy, kindness and love.”