THE FAMILY of tragic schoolgirl Paige Doherty have announced plans to start a charity in her memory – offering free self-defence classes.
Paige’s heartbroken mum Pamela Munro said she wants youngsters in Glasgow to have access to the classes, which would also include weapon defence.
Paige’s primary cause of death, according to her death certificate, was a “sharp force injury” to the neck.
Her mother also wants to offer support services to families affected by kids who have passed away under tragic circumstances.
The name of the charity is still to be decided but the family aim to hold several fundraising events to get it kickstarted.
And they will also begin selling ‘Justice for Paige’ wristbands to help raise extra cash.
Writing on a Facebook memorial page, 32-year-old Pamela said: “As everyone knows I’m Paige’s mum. I’d like to thank everyone for their support throughout this.
“We are in the process of starting a charity in Paige’s name (name will be revealed of charity later).
“The reason for the charity is to get kids free self defence and weapon defence classes throughout Glasgow so they can protect themselves best they can.
“Also it will be offering support services to families affected by kids who have passed away under tragic circumstances.”
She added: “Our first event we are putting in place is a sponsored walk from Clydebank to Balloch. Also having a halfway walk for kids who might want to do it.
“Also you will see in the next few weeks silicone wristbands saying Justice For Paige available to buy and the funds will also go to Paige’s charity.”
Hundreds of family and friends wrote messages of support on the post, which has been ‘liked’ almost 2,000 times.
Helen King said: “What a truly selfless thing to do when your life has been turned upside down. I truly admire your strength and determination, good luck and God bless.”
Chloe Mcdade wrote: “I can’t put into words how much Paige would be proud of you Pamela. All the strength you’re showing…would be more than happy to buy wristbands.”
There were even enquiries from as far away as America.
Deanna DiPietrantonio asked: “Will they be available to purchase from the USA? I may not have known her but her story made me cry and touched my heart.”
Paige had left a sleepover at a friend’s home and was on her way to collect her wages from her part-time job as a hairdresser when she went missing on Saturday, March 19 this year.
The 15-year-old’s body was found 48 hours later in a wooded area just off Great Western Road in Clydebank.
A man charged with the murder of Paige recently made a second private appearance in court.
John Leathem, 31, of Clydebank, West Dunbartonshire, made no plea or declaration during the full committal hearing at Dumbarton Sheriff Court.
He was remanded in custody after the hearing, which came less than a week after his initial appearance in the dock.
