10-02-2025
Community lines streets to say goodbye to murdered schoolgirl on her 'final journey'
Mourners lined the streets of a West Lothian town to bid farewell to murdered six-year-old Hope Gordon.
The schoolgirl and her 36-year-old father, Mark Gordon, were found dead after emergency crews forced entry to a property in Harburn Drive, West Calder, last month.
Police Scotland has launched a murder probe into her death, while Mr Gordon's death is not being treated as suspicious.
On Monday, a private family service was held in Livingston before the youngster's coffin was taken by horse-drawn carriage through the town to Adambrae Cemetery.
Mourners turned out in force for what the family called "Hope's Day", with flowers thrown towards the hearse as it travelled by.
Hope's coffin was decorated with characters from Paw Patrol, her favourite cartoon, and the hearse followed a car carrying a Paw Patrol floral tribute provided by Toronto Primary School, where she had been a pupil.
The ornate white hearse was pulled by two white horses, each draped in a white cloth and with blue and yellow feathers attached to their heads, a reference to the Paw Patrol colours.
The carriage was followed by a close family friend dressed as Chase, a character from the animated series, with cars bearing members of Hope's family close behind.
The procession was headed by a piper in full Highland dress, who piped the schoolgirl on what her family described as "Hope's final journey".
A fundraiser launched by family friend Melanie Wheeldon to help cover the cost of Hope's Day raised more than £10,000 - more than five times its original £2,000 target.
In a statement posted on the page, Ms Wheeldon said: "On 20 January 2025, our hearts shattered as we learned of the tragic and senseless murder of six-year-old Hope.
"Hope was a vibrant and loving little girl, known for her infectious smile, kind spirit and deep love for animals.
"Hope's life was tragically cut short, leaving a void in the hearts of her family and friends that can never be filled."
