UNSOLVED - The searchfor answers goes on

40 years on the memory of murdered schoolgirl Lisa Hession lives on as police continue the hunt for her killer, writes Neal Keeling

- Neal Keeling

IN a school garden bathed in rays of winter sun is a plaque next to a silver birch tree. They are there to make sure one woman is never forgotten.

A simple gold inscription is embossed on the slate memorial.

The sapling replaced a cherry blossom which was planted in the same soil four decades ago but destroyed in a storm in 2022.

They lie in The Quadrangle at Bedford High School in Leigh where Lisa Jane Hession was once a pupil.

A cross country runner with Leigh Harriers, talented gymnast and confident 14-year-old, she was outgoing and popular.

But on the night of December 8, 1984-40 years ago today - she was found strangled in an alleyway near her home in the town. She was the victim of a sex attack and the culprit has never been caught.

In the months that followed, Neil Stephan, a classmate, and others.

found a way of making sure the girl with a zest for life was forever remembered at her school.

The cherry tree, loved for its majestic blossom, was planted in the grounds and a plaque bearing her name was installed. Pupils also planted daffodils.

When the tree was destroyed, plans to replace it were met with overwhelming support from the local community. And now it has been planted.

Speaking to the Manchester Evening News, Neil recalled the impact the teenagers's death had on the community.

"I will never forget the Monday morning at school following the weekend Lisa died", he said.

"That was a very black day. All the girls were crying and the police were everywhere at the school too.

"I remember Lisa very well. She sat in class at the front. Every time I came into class Lisa would say to me 'who you gawping at? I was tall and lanky at the time.

"She was very popular and very outgoing. A lovely girl. I have never forgotten her. We have to keep a memorial to her.