Arrest over youth club stabbing

Joseph Lappin was with friends when he was attacked

A 16-year-old youth has been arrested on suspicion of murdering a teenager outside a Liverpool youth club.

Joseph Lappin was fatally stabbed when he and two friends were attacked by up to 15 youths near Shrewsbury House Youth Club in Everton on Monday.

A 16-year-old from the Kirkdale area was arrested on Wednesday and is due to be questioned by officers.

Joseph's parents John and Toni visited the scene of his murder and left two notes attached to a bunch of flowers.

One of the cards said: "Joseph. The good die young, and we know you were one of the best, sleep tight son.

"Love forever Mum x."

The other said: "To my beautiful son Joseph.

"Words cannot express how I feel. Love you always Dad x."

Mr and Mrs Lappin were accompanied by the vicar of nearby St Peter's Church Reverend Henry Corbett, along with family and friends.

Toni and John Lappin have appealed for help in catching Joseph's killers

The couple had appealed on Tuesday to the families of those involved in the attack to come forward.

Joseph, an army cadet, and his friends were chased by a gang of youths as they left the club after watching a music performance.

Police said a 17-year-old, who was stabbed twice, was "incredibly lucky" to have survived.

A third friend, also aged 17, suffered minor injuries.

Two youths who were earlier arrested on suspicion of murder have been released on bail.

Police are continuing to search the area close to the youth club.

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