TODAY The Evening Star launches a powerful campaign to forever remember those victims of the red light murders - and to prevent other bright, young women from slipping into the clutches of drug addiction and prostitution.
TODAY The Evening Star launches a powerful campaign to forever remember those victims of the red light murders - and to prevent other bright, young women from slipping into the clutches of drug addiction and prostitution.
With Suffolk's evil serial killer still at large and his victims' families still trying to comprehend their loss, The Star has created the 'Somebody's Daughter' memorial fund.
The campaign title comes from the headline on our emotive front page on December 5 - and has fast become a soundbite among the national media for the tragedies which have shocked our beleaguered county.
We want to raise the tens of thousands of pounds necessary to tackle the downward drug-induced spiral that engulfed women such as Gemma Adams, Tania Nicol and Anneli Alderton.
Working with community leaders, churches, schools and drug outreach teams, our aim is to ensure more girls do not walk in their footsteps.
And we want to find the cash to create a lasting memorial to the tragic five victims whose lives have been mercilessly robbed by the monster who still prowls our streets.
To get the ball rolling, Ipswich business leader Richard Cattermole has donated £500, while The Star has chipped in and matched that figure.
Mr Cattermole, chief executive of the Elizabeth Hotel Group said he and his company had been incredibly moved by the tragedies surrounding the five women.
He said: “Somebody's Daughter sums it up perfectly for me.
“I have a lovely daughter and I can empathise with all of those who have suffered so grievously.
“I'm joining with The Evening Star in launching Somebody's Daughter so we can plan for a lasting memorial to those who have died.
“Please do all you can to help.”
Star editor Nigel Pickover added: “These five innocent victims were loved and cherished people and it is to them we must think of first.
“Forget the world they fell into. All five had loved ones, all had good friends.
“Today, The Evening Star needs your help to ensure they are never, ever forgotten.”
To back our campaign or to make a donation, call Star reporter Josh Warwick on 01473 324840 or e-mail josh.warwick@eveningstar.co.uk
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