West Lothian community urged to 'line streets' in memory of murdered schoolgirl

A community in West Lothian has been urged to “line the streets” in memory of a schoolgirl who was killed.

Hope Gordon was found dead alongside her dad, Mark, at a property on Harburn Drive in West Calder around 4pm on Monday, January 20.

Police were called to the house after a family member raised concerns about the six-year-old failing to attend school.

Hope’s death is being treated as murder and her 36-year-old dad’s as not suspicious.

The schoolgirl is set to make her “final journey” through Livingston to Adambrae Cemetery on February 10.

Concerns were raised about Hope after she didn't attend school. — Concerns were raised about Hope after she didn’t attend school. Co-Op funeralcare

Hope’s family have asked those wishing to pay their respects to line the streets as she passes in a horse drawn carriage.

The cortege will leave will leave Co-op Funeralcare, Livingston, at around 12.45pm and turn left and continue through Dedridge.

Hope’s aunt said that the “world feels empty” without her.

Hope, six year old girl who died in West Calder

Edinburgh & East

Family of murdered schoolgirl say her death ‘will never be understood’

Hope Gordon’s aunt said that the six-year-old’s death has left them feeling ’empty’.

A fundraiser launched to help pay for her funeral has raised nearly £9,000 in five days.

Posting on the donation page, Hope’s aunt Tess said that the tragedy would “never be understood or justified” by the family.

“The torment, torture and heartache that we feel will never be able to be described,” she said.

“Not today, not tomorrow, and not in the future. Not only do we feel empty, but the world feels empty too.”

Mark Gordon's death is not being treated as suspicious. — Mark Gordon’s death is not being treated as suspicious. STV News

Police Scotland chief superintendent Gregg Banks said the incident was “shocking and deeply upsetting”.

“The impact is felt right across the local community,” he said.

“I am grateful for the support received as we methodically complete essential enquires within the house in West Calder to ensure the families and local residents get the answers they deserve, and would ask that the family’s privacy is respected at this incredibly difficult time.

“There will continue to be a visible policing presence in the area and I would urge anyone with questions, concerns or information to approach a local officer – they are there to help.”