Lockerbie tribute to terror victims
A RIDER astride a white horse joined marchers on a peace walk near Lockerbie yesterday, to mark the 30th anniversary of the jumbo jet bombing.
Krystal Anderson and her mount Rebal carried the Lockerbie Standard as she accompanied marchers carrying 21 different flags to represent the victims of the terrorist atrocity.
Marchers to the summit of a hill overlooking the town were residents, farmers and those who helped in the aftermath of the tragedy. They were joined by Church of Scotland and Catholic clergy, Buddhist monks and Japanese spiritual teachers.
Pan Am Flight 103 exploded over the town in Dumfries and Galloway, killing all 250 on board the Boeing 747 and 11 residents, on December 21 1988.
Ms Anderson, who represented the town during this year’s annual Lockerbie Riding of the Marches, is from one of the many families who offered aid in the aftermath of the bombing.
She said: “So many people were affected by the bombing, but the community really showed how strong it is, and everybody rallied round. Ever since then, people from this area have been working for peace.
“I see the ride as being a way to help spread that message.”
Environmental artist Jan Hogarth, who is helping to organise the events, said: “By carrying the Lockerbie Standard from Tundergarth to the local landmark of Burnswark, Krystal will symbolise the love and compassion with which these communities responded to a tragedy that affected so many families and countries.
“In the decades since, the people of this area have shown people kindness and compassion. These events build on that positive process, bringing together people of all generations and of many backgrounds and beliefs.”
The march was one of three linked Journey Towards Peace events that focus on hope, kindness and the need to end conflict.