Two hero dance class teachers saved up to 16 innocent children from being attacked by a masked killer who ambushed a Taylor Swift-themed workshop in Southport yesterday, MailOnline can reveal.
Brave Leanne Lucas, 35, who organised the yoga and bracelet making class is among the victims fighting for her life in hospital after the 'ferocious attack' that left two children dead.
The primary school supply teacher - who now teaches children's yoga workshops - suffered stab injuries after a man entered the venue through the unlocked door, which was left open amid the scorching heat, and started attacking children.
Ms Lucas and her co-organiser and dance teacher Heidi Barlow, also 35, saved 16 children as the 25-strong class aged between six and 11, while nine children were taken to hospital and six remain in a critical condition.
Ms Barlow was also injured in the attack, although not seriously, MailOnline understands.
Two female adults were rushed to hospital after police say they 'bravely tried to protect them' from the attack at the Hart Space Studios on Hart Street.
Ms Lucas, who's also a qualified primary school teacher, is the owner and founder of Enlighten, planned the two-hour session to coincide with the start of the school holidays.
She was hailed today by relatives who paid tribute to her bravery and love for her students.
Pauline Bennett, 64, said: 'She's only tiny, she wouldn't have stood a chance against a man with a knife, but she just wanted to protect those children.
This is one of the Hero teachers who fought like tigers to save the 16 children.. and are now fighting for their own lives...