Mum’s tribute to bomb victim Martyn
THE mother of Manchester Arena bombing victim Martyn Hett said he will “live on as an inspiration”.
Figen Murray spoke about her son ahead of his funeral service yesterday, which was held at Stockport Town Hall, and said she forgives the suicide bomber who killed him after an Ariana Grande concert in May.
Our columnist Michelle McManus paid a heartfelt tribute to him in the Evening Times when news of his death was announced and yesterday she sang at the service.
Coronation Street stars Kym Marsh, Jennie McAlpine, Helen Worth and Antony Cotton joined his family, friends and fans to celebrate the life of the 29-year-old.
He was one of 22 people killed when suicide bomber Salman Abedi detonated a device as crowds left the American star’s concert.
Mrs Murray, and stepfather Stuart Murray, said it was only after his death that they realised how well known Mr Hett was through social media.
Mrs Murray said: “I’m totally and utterly gobsmacked.
“And it seems that he was fearless about life as well because he wasn’t frightened of talking about his own death.
“He actually had discussed and planned his funeral the way he wanted to exit.”
She said Mr Hett had wanted to have two white horses at his funeral and for everyone to dress in black “with something fabulous”.
She said her son, who appeared on Come Dine With Me, had the ability to make other people feel special.