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Runners return to remember Moira Jones killed in Glasgow park

Harry October 28, 2024

Murder victim’s mother Moira Jones has paid tribute to her “beautiful and bright” daughter at a tenth anniversary fundraiser in her name.

Bea Jones, her husband Hu and son Grant launched Moira’s Run after Ms Jones, 40, was beaten to death in May 2008 when she was abducted yards from her Glasgow home.

The sales manager’s murderer, Marek Harcar, was later sentenced to life imprisonment.

Since its founding, the Moira Fund has helped nearly 5,000 people bereaved by violence in the UK.

“She was my best friend, my beautiful daughter,” Bea Jones said.

“He was very, very social. He was smart, thoughtful and kind. No matter what he did, he did his best. “He loved Glasgow and he loved the people of Glasgow and their warmth and humour.”

Nearly 500 runners took part in a 5km run in Queen’s Park on Sunday to raise money for the Moira Fund.

The charity’s donations can cover everything from funeral expenses to clothes to wear to court.

Some of the families who benefited from the charity’s support this year also attended.

“We have been doing this study since 2019,” Angela said. “My son Gary was killed in 2018, so we like to support that too… It’s quite comforting to do the run and know that there are a lot of people in the same situation as us.

“Although it is difficult, we know it is important to participate.”

Moira Jones’ family also successfully campaigned for the establishment of the Scottish Homicide Service, which provides families of murder victims with a dedicated case worker.

“We have a specialist team campaigning through the Moira Fund to support families who have lost loved ones to murder and culpable homicide in Scotland,” said Kate Wallace, Chief Executive of Victim Support Scotland.

“Even one murder is one too many in this context, but we are trying to ensure that people are provided with support and information in a situation where they are absolutely unprepared and distraught.”

To find out more about the work of the Moira Fund or to get support Visit the Moira Fund website.