Liam’s killers should never be freed from prison, says father 3/6/13
Norrie Aitchison, the father of Liam, says the two men convicted of murdering his
son should never be released from jail.
On behalf of Liam’s mother, Mairi, and himself, Mr Aitchison thanked the island community,
wellwishers and Liam’s friends for their support.
In an emotional statement outside Glasgow High Court, Mr Aitchison, who listened
to the evidence every day, said only now could the family grieve properly for Liam.
Norrie Aitchison said: “We are pleased that the jury has returned a guilty verdict
which will finally allow Liam to rest in peace and bring the family some closure.
"The last 18 months have been unbearable and we have never been able to properly
grieve for our beloved crazy diamond."
“From the testimony of witnesses it was plain to see how well loved Liam was.”
He said that Liam’s death brought “great sorrow to all communities in the Western
Isles. We are extremely grateful for all well wishes received from so many people.
“Liam was extremely popular and loved by his family and many friends. He had an outgoing
personality and a heart of gold.
“He was famous for making people laugh. He was a Children’s Parliament ambassador
and a talented drummer.
“We have no doubt he would have made a huge success of his life.”
Mr Aitchison said the scale of brutality of Liam’s death has had a “devastating effect
on our lives.”
He said: “It has also left a big void in the heart of his mother, Mairi.”
“We think of Liam every hour of every day and we have not been able to mourn his
death."
“He fought to defend himself but he didn't stand a chance against the violence he
came against that night."
“He was left stripped of his clothes with 20 stabs wounds.
“No family should have to endure what we have.”
Mr Aitchison said: “The cowards who robbed our Liam of his life and his future should
never be allowed to see the outside of a prison again.”