More than 100 run in support of rape victim

A West Lothian woman who organised a support run to show solidarity with a 32-year-old rape victim in Armadale last month has hailed the local community who turned up to the “heartwarming” event.

Marie Wishart, from Armadale, held the run on Saturday to show support for the woman who was the victim of a horrific sexual assault near to Armadale Stadium while out jogging on the night of Tuesday April 25.

Ms Wishart said: “It was a great sight to see the community out in support of the woman that was attacked.”

Over 100 people took part in the support run on Saturday, including men, women and children with nearly £700 raised for Rape Crisis Scotland.

Ms Wishart said: “It was heartwarming and humbling to see such a great turnout.

“At least 100 people participated - men, women, children and dogs.

We raised £ 588.44 on the morning and headed towards £ 700 with other donations since then from people who couldn’t make it on the day but still wanted to show their support by donating.”

Speaking before the race Ms Wishart said that she wanted the community to come together in a show of unity and defiance in the wake of the attack.

Ms Wishart said: “We want to show that we are against what happened and that we are showing support to the attacked woman.

“Ever ybody in the community is absolutely d i s g u s t e d b y wha t happened.”

Police in West Lothian are continuing to investigate the sexual assault in West Lothian and anyone with information should contact Livingston’s Public Protection Unit on 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.