Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Remembering Moira
Search stood down after tragic anniversary is marked
Sandra Brown has spoken of the “huge disappointment” felt after the search for the remains of Moira Anderson in the Monkland canal proved fruitless.
Police announced on Thursday that no human remains had been found during their two weeks of operations, and that they had informed the missing schoolgirl’s sisters of the development and that the site at Carnbroe had been stood down.
Sandra, who established the Moira Anderson Foundation in memory of the Coatbridge youngster, was in constant touch with Moira’s Australia- based sister, Janet Hart, throughout the latest search.
She told the Advertiser : “The negative result is a huge disappointment and very sad, but we’ve been here and had to take the blows on the chin before. We’ve come this far and have faith in those in charge.
“We’re resigned to saying onwards and upwards; there have been many kind messages saying ‘don’t give up’. The breakthrough is going to happen and when it does it’ll be deserved; it’s time.
“The objects of interest that the scanners picked up were correct, as there were a number of large animal bones in the canal. It was the first of a number of locations looked at by the Cold Case Unit and it was felt it had a great deal of potential.
“In a strange way, I’m more hopeful – the police have eliminated something which seemed very feasible; I’m hoping it will maybe turn out to be third time lucky, after the cemetery [searched four years ago] and now the canal.”
Police divers and specialists from Dundee University’s centre for anatomy and human identification worked together to examine five areas of interest in the canal, designated with the assistance of experts from across the UK.
Detective Superintendent Pat Campbell, who led the operation, said: “A significant number of bones were recovered from the areas of interest which, following expert examination, were found to be animal remains.
“The search has been extensive and thorough, and no human remains have been recovered.
“I have been in contact with Moira’s sisters and made them aware of the outcome of the search and although they are naturally disappointed, they remain positive that this continues to be a live investigation.
“I have reassured them of my own and Police Scotland’s commitment to recover Moira’s remains and bring closure to the family and the community.”
The search came shortly after the 60th anniversary of Moira’s disappearance; which saw Janet travel all the way from her home on the other side of the world to Monklands for a poignant event to mark the date.
Janet ,72, visited the Foundation’s base at Mavisbank Street – where 11 white doves were released in tribute to Moira, and P7 pupils from nearby Golfhill Primary sang at the event.
Sandra added: “The anniversary event was a moving occasion for everyone involved, and we were delighted to have Janet join us.
“The Golfhill pupils were in wonderful voice, and Foundation volunteer Edna Doran designed and baked an incredible cake which was a superb tribute to Moira.”
She added: “It would give us – and the Monklands community – such peace of mind if Moira is finally found.”
Thee anniversary eve anniversary event was held in the foundation’ s back garden