The schools of the two children who lost their lives in a suspected double murder in Stoke-on-Trent have described the “huge hole” left behind in their community.

Their schools paid tribute to the children, who have been named as Ethan John, 11, and Elizabeth John, seven.

A 49-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of murder after officers found the two children with “significant” injuries at a property in Flax Street, Staffordshire police said.

Officers had been called to a car wash in Campbell Road at 2.04pm on Sunday to reports that a man in his 40s had been stabbed. He was taken to hospital by paramedics and has since been discharged.

Ethan was a child with “impeccable manners and an infectious smile”, his school said, while Elizabeth’s school said she was “a ray of sunshine” who was everyone’s friend.

Ethan’s school said he was a “wonderful” member of their school community: “He will be hugely missed by the staff and pupils alike, and will for ever be part of our hearts.”

In a tribute to Elizabeth, her school said: “Elizabeth was a kind, caring and friendly member of our school family.

“She was a ray of sunshine who always had a smile on her face. She was everyone’s friend – she was both bright and popular. The loss of Elizabeth is truly devastating for us all and her absence will leave a huge hole within our school community.”

Staffordshire police arrested the woman after calling at the house and discovering the two children injured inside. They died at the scene despite the efforts of paramedics.

DCI Cheryl Hannan of Staffordshire police said: “Our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of the children. I cannot image the pain and shock they are feeling.

“We also understand the concern felt locally around this incident and the speculation around what has happened.

“The woman arrested is known to the children. We don’t believe there to be any wider threat to the public at this time.

“Our focus remains on finding out more about what happened yesterday and supporting the family at this deeply distressing and tragic time.”

Detectives have appealed for any CCTV or dashcam footage from the area of Flax Street and Campbell Road between 1.30pm and 2.30pm on Sunday, and for any information from people in the area at the time.

The force said it had made a voluntary referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct due to recent police contact.

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