THE mother of Manchester Arena bombing victim Martyn Hett read out the names of all 22 people killed in the terror attack as she began a 200-mile walk to Downing Street.
Stood almost exactly in the spot where the bomb was detonated, Figen Murray paid tribute to the victims of the May 2017 atrocity as she took the latest step in her campaign for the introduction of stronger protections against terrorism in public places.
Martyn's Law would require venues and local authorities in the UK to have training requirements and preventative plans against terror attacks. Shortly before setting off she told the M.E.N.: "I think Martyn would be really touched that I'm starting it here where he died, more or less where he stood.
It's important to me that I start here - it brings it full circle. But I also think he'd smile that his little mother is doing this big task. And hopefully somewhere along the line he'd be proud." Over the 16-day walk Figen will be joined by friends and family, politicians, security industry experts and members of the public. She is set to arrive on May 22, the seventh anniversary of attack.
Martyn's sister Louise Webster and friend Michael Keating were among those taking part in the first 14-mile leg yesterday. Michael said: "It's a lot being here in this room. Last time we were here was just a couple of weeks after it happened.
This story is from the May 08, 2024 edition of Manchester Evening News.
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This story is from the May 08, 2024 edition of Manchester Evening News.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
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