Torchlit marchers call for safer roads after death of girl
HUNDREDS of people marched together in an emotional torchlit procession last night in tribute to a 12-year-old girl who was killed after being hit by a car last week.
Abbie Mclaren died last Tuesday after the accident on The Loaning in Motherwell.
Yesterday evening, around 300 people took part in the procession through the town in her memory, which passed by the spot where she lost her life.
The gathering was also held to call for increased road safety measures in the area, while those who could not attend took to social media to share pictures of lit candles on a community Facebook page.
Dozens of floral and balloon tributes have been laid on the pavement for the popular schoolgirl.
Following Abbie’s death, her distraught grandmother wrote on social media that “she will sadly be missed and a part of my heart has died with her too”.
She said: “Well, tonight my heart has been ripped out. I can’t express how I feel. My precious granddaughter Abbie has been taken away from us. So young and so beautiful. Let the angels look after her now.
“She will sadly be missed and a part of my heart has died with her too. I love you so much, Abbie.
“Words can’t explain how I will not cope without you now. You always lit up the room every time you came in, always giving us kisses and cuddles.”
Martin Mcguire, a cousin of Abbie’s father, appeared at Hamilton Sheriff Court charged with causing death by dangerous driving. The 38-year-old from Hamilton made no plea and was remanded in custody.
A Gofundme page was set up to raise money following Abbie’s death. Aiming to reach £1,000, last night it stood at £4,650.
On Friday, hundreds of schoolchildren gathered to release balloons in Abbie’s memory. Classmates from Dalziel High School and family members headed to her former primary school, Glencairn, to release the balloons.
Robert Birch, rector of Dalziel High, said: “I know I’m speaking on behalf of all pupils, staff and friends at Dalziel when I say that Abbie’s death has been a devastating loss to the entire school community.”