Runners return to honour Moira Jones who was murdered in Glasgow's Queen's Park

The mother of murder victim Moira Jones says this year’s charity run in honour of her daughter has been the best one to date.

Hundreds of people took part in the 5k run through Queen’s Park in Glasgow on Sunday to raise money for The Moira Fund.

Bea Jones set it up after her daughter was abducted in the park, just yards from her Glasgow home, and beaten to death in May 2008.

The fund supports families who have lost a loved one as a result of violent crime. Sunday’s run was the first time the event had been held in person since the coronavirus pandemic.

Ms Jones said: “There is always such a wonderful atmosphere. Folk seem to bring with them such camaraderie and warmth and that is so good for everyone there, for us, for me.

“It seems like their warmth surrounds me and there is nothing quite like it.”

“There can be no doubt that we missed it. There’s something about coming to Glasgow, to the area where Moira lived and where she was killed, and the community – that community gathers around.

“It almost feels like – it makes me quite emotional. It feels like arms come round and hug you. There’s a warmth. There’s also always humour and that Glasgow humour, Moira just loved when she lived here.”

Ms Jones also said how much the charity appreciates the support of many Glasgow running clubs, whose team members have taken part in every run, as well as the Scottish Violence Reduction Unit (SVRU) and the Victim Support Scotland’s Support for Families Bereaved by Crime.

“I am much moved by that. Very pleased,” she said. “It is no easy thing to organise an event of this size, especially when you are involved in other crucial work at the same time, but the SVRU team along with their wonderful volunteers do it for us every year and for the last two years have managed a virtual run as well.”

Niven Rennie, director of the Scottish Violence Reduction Unit, said: “It’s great the run is back at Queen’s Park this year as we know how much Moira’s family and friends appreciate the support of those who turn out.

“Glasgow has a strong sense of community and I know the city will once again ensure this event is a great success.

“The Moira Fund provide a vital service to families struggling to deal with the loss of a loved one to violence. We’re honoured to be able to support them in that work.”

After the run, those taking part gathered for a presentation at Camphill Bowling Club on the outskirts of the park.