Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Prayers for Alesha
Candlelit vigil for tragic schoolgirl this Friday night
A memorial event for Alesha MacPhail will take place in West End Park this Friday.
The vigil, which will see lanterns and balloons released at 8pm, will commemorate the tragic Airdrie schoolgirl who was killed last week while visiting relatives on the Isle of Bute. A teenage boy has been charged with Alesha’s murder.
On Sunday, hundreds of mourners held a candlelit vigil in Rothesay.
This event followed a similar one at Chapelside Primary last Wednesday, which was attended by dozens of Alesha’s friends and their parents.
The six- year- old’s body was found last Monday, just hours after she was reported missing from her grandparents’ home.
Shocked islanders held Sunday’s vigil to show their support for the little girl’s devastated relatives.
Photos of Alesha and heartfelt messages were placed alongside hundreds of candles.
Fundraising pages, including one set up by Airdrieonians Supporters’ Trust, have raised almost £15,000 and a number of fundraising events have been arranged locally, as Monklands people rally round Alesha’s family.
The popular young schoolgirl was at the start of a three- week break visiting her dad and grandparents on the holiday isle when she was killed.
A 16- year- old youth appeared in court on Friday charged with Alesha’s rape and murder. The boy, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, made no plea during a private appearance at Greenock Sheriff Court. He was remanded in custody ahead of a second court appearance later this month.
Alesha MacPhail’s heartbroken mum Genie Lochrane paid an emotional tribute to her“strong little girl” on Monday night.
It is the first time Genie has spoken out since her daughter was found dead in a woodland area near to her grandmother’s house.
Commenting on the Isle of Bute Facebook page, the 23-year-old Airdrie woman wrote: “I have finally built up the courage to write this.
“I would like to thank each and every single one of you on the Isle of Bute for everything you have done for mine and Robert’s darling daughter.
“She will be looking down with that big massive glowing smile of hers and be so proud for everything everyone has and will continue to do for her, myself, dad, grandparents and the rest of the people who loved our girl dearly.
“I thank you all from the bottom of my heart. Last night [Sunday’s vigil for Alesha on Rothesay] was beautiful. I am sorry I could not attend. Thank you once again.”
Expressing gratitude for the many messages of support she has received over the last week, Genie added: ‘Thank you for your kind words, I will stand tall because this is what Alesha would want.
“She always told me she would be strong like me when she got bigger and what a strong little girl she is.
“I have the full world behind me, helping me be strong and fight. Thank you xx.”
Locals and residents were quick to reply to the heartbreaking post.
Elaine Newlands wrote: “Sending you lots of strength. Thinking of you all.”
Catherine Gillies added: “Thoughts and prayers with you Genie.”
Nicole Booth wrote: “As a mum myself I can’t imagine what you must be going through just now. Every time I saw Alesha she was always a happy smiley little girl. I’m so sorry she has been taken away from you.”
Genie and the other members of Alesha’s family were hailed for their courage by the police officer leading the investigation into the six-year-old’s death.
Detective Superintendent Stuart Houston also praised the support the family has received from the Airdrie community.
He said: “I’d like to thank Alesha’s family who have shown incredible bravery through an unimaginable ordeal.
“The family has also received considerable support from Alesha’s home town, reflected in the memorial service at her school.”
Online fundraisers set up to help Alesha’s relatives, including one organised by members of Airdrieonians Supporters’ Trust, have already raised almost £15,000.
To make a donation, visit www. uk.gofundme.com/love-for-alesha.
A charity football match in Alesha’s memory will take place on August 4, with a fundraising night in the Four Isles lounge on July 28.