Scotland remembers Dunblane

Nicola Sturgeon yesterday spoke of “one of the darkest and most heartbreaking” days in Scotland’s history on the 25th anniversary of the Dunblane tragedy.

The First Minister yesterday posted a heartfelt message on social media, as Scots joined residents of the Stirlingshire town in quiet remembrance.

She wrote: “This day, 25 years ago, was one of the darkest and most heartbreaking in Scotland’s history. Thinking today of 16 little children, their teacher and all those who still live with the pain. They are forever in our hearts.”

Sixteen P1 children and teacher Gwen Mayor were murdered when a gunman opened fire on a gym class at Dunblane Primary School on March 13, 1996.

Yesterday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the tragedy “shocked not just Scotland, but the whole world. We must never forget all those who lost their lives on that terrible day. We must continue to tell their story.”

Rev Colin Renwick, minister at Dunblane Cathedral, said: “Many people in Dunblane will be marking this particular anniversary as they mark March 13 every year – quietly, privately and with respect for those who lost their lives in the tragedy of 25 years ago.

“They will also be remembering those whose grief will always be deepest, and the people who still, in one way or another, bear scars.”

This day, 25 years ago, was one of the darkest and most heartbreaking in Scotland’s history. Thinking today of 16 little children, their teacher and all those who still live with the pain. They are forever in our hearts

– Nicola Sturgeon yesterday