MY PRECIOUS GIRL — Brave mum of ‘m.u.rd3.red’ Minnie Merriman breaks down as she says heartbreaking final goodbye to beloved daughter…
‘TOO PRECIOUS’ Brave mum of ‘murdered’ Minnie Merriman sobs as she sends beloved daughter off on final journey back homeTHE heartbroken mum of a nine-year-old girl allegedly murdered by her father sobbed as she said her final goodbye yesterday.
Laurie Merriman broke down as bikers and a piper led her nine-year-old daughter’s farewell procession in Arbroath.
Minnie Merriman was allegedly murdered by her dadCredit: PA
The family wanted to show their thanks by holding a memorial at the seafrontCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
Her mum Laurie saw her off and sobbed as she held a bunny with the youngster’s name on itCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
Residents turned out to show supportCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
She held a bunny bearing Minnie’s name as she placed her head against the side of the van carrying her daughter’s body.
Laurie said: “Love you forever Minnie.” She then walked with family in front of the vehicle as it drove away.
The van began the long journey home to Wakefield, Yorkshire, from Arbroath, Angus — a 280-mile trip — three weeks after her death.
Arbroath was brought to a standstill as a huge crowd gathered for a seafront memorial, with Minnie led along by the bikers and a piper.
Laurie cried throughout the emotional tribute and was consoled by members of the public who hugged her.
One told her: “I’m so sorry.”
Laurie placed her head on the side of the van that was carrying her little girlCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
Minnie was led along by bikers and then a piperCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
She laid flowers alongside bouquets and toys left by residents, while flares were let off in Minnie’s memory.
One balloon read: “Too precious to ever be forgotten — Minnie.”
Laurie had been stranded until she got the green light to take her girl home.
Some local mums had rallied round to help and got donations of clothes and food from local businesses.
The family wanted to show their thanks by holding a memorial at the seafront.
Organiser Kerry Tough said: “It’s been so emotional. Things have been extremely tough for the family. But they are so grateful for everything that’s been done for them. And all the help and support.”
Alice Lawson, who addressed the crowd, said: “This was a group of mums coming together to support another at the worst possible time.
“Thank you all from the bottom of their hearts.”
Minnie’s dad is accused of killing her on a camping holiday.
She was found severely injured in a tent on an industrial estate in Arbroath in the early hours of August 3 and never recovered.
Her dad Christopher Rice, 35, was arrested and charged with her murder, and has been remanded in custody after appearing at Forfar Sheriff Court.
