Brynmawr Foundation School in Wales has established a memorial area for 14-year-old pupil Lilly Jones, whose body was discovered in Duffryn Park, Blaina, Blaenau Gwent, on June 22. She had been reported missing on June 20. A 14-year-old boy, who cannot be named due to his age, has been charged with her murder and appeared in Cardiff Crown Court on June 29, with a provisional trial date set for November 23.
School and Community Tributes
Headteacher Gerard McNamara expressed deep sadness, stating: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the tragic passing of one of our pupils, Lilly Jones. She was a valued member of our school community, known for her kindness, warmth, and bubbly personality." The memorial area, located near the visitors car park, is open to the public for laying flowers.
Friends, classmates, teachers, and community members have left flowers and tributes. Nearly £20,000 has been raised in Lilly's memory through a fundraiser, a jumble sale, and a football festival organized by local teams.
Legal Proceedings and Police Appeal
Detective Chief Inspector Steven Thomas of Gwent Police said: "Our thoughts remain with Lilly's family and friends at this difficult time. I want to reiterate that it is vital that people consider how their language, especially comments made online, could affect our ability to bring anyone found to have committed a criminal offence to justice." The defendant remains in custody until a plea and trial preparation hearing on July 24.
Police continue to appeal for CCTV footage or information, asking the public to contact them on 101 quoting log 2600194414, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
