An evening of unity, reflection, prayer and support was held on Sunday at the Southampton Rangers Sports Club.

The club, which was left shaken by the fatal stabbing last month of 39-year-old Lindley “LJ” Scott Jr, said the gathering reflected its “continued commitment to serving not only its members but the wider community, fostering meaningful connections and providing a space for support beyond sport”.

The community prayer gathering at Rangers brought together club members, faith leaders and area residents — opening with a welcome from Darren “Butch” Burchall, the club president.

Mr Burchall said of the night: “It has been written that a community will perish when the children it ignores return to burn it down.

“We are here to put the fire out before it causes more damage. Bringing the community together to pray and reflect is the first step in that process.”

Contributions came from Troy Lowe, Chantelle Bean, Peter Rego and chaplain Kevin Santucci.

The Reverend Leonard Santucci of Vernon Temple AME Church also offered words of comfort and prayer, calling upon residents to come together in solidarity.

Attendees joined hands in a show of unity to highlight the strength and importance of community support.

A 32-year-old man has been charged in court in connection with the murder of Mr Scott.

He was not required to enter a plea and the case is to call again next month.

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