Vigil to mark life of murdered UK boy

Thousands of well-wishers are expected to join the family of murdered British schoolboy Rhys Jones today at a community vigil…

Thousands of well-wishers are expected to join the family of murdered British schoolboy Rhys Jones today at a community vigil to mark the youngster's life.

His mother Melanie (41) father Stephen (44) and older brother Owen (17) will light a candle in his memory at the ceremony at Croxteth Country Park at 4pm.

The event will pay tribute to the 11-year-old together with other gun crime victims and renew the appeal for information to help catch Rhys's killer.

A schoolboy friend will give a reading in honour of his murdered pal and there will be singing by a community choir.

READ MORE

Rhys died after he was blasted in the neck with a single shot while walking home after playing football with his friends.

The gunman, who was seen wearing a hooded top, made his escape on a BMX bicycle shortly after the shooting on August 22nd.

Rhys's mother raced to the scene and cradled her dying son in her arms. He was rushed to Alder Hey Children's Hospital but despite the efforts of doctors he died a short time later.

Today's ceremony will also be attended by the Bishop of Liverpool, the Rt Rev James Jones , Lord Mayor of the city Paul Clark and June Simm - a teacher at Fazakerley High School, where Rhys was due to start this month.

The vigil is aimed at remembering "all victims of gun crime, especially children". It is also hoped it will offer emotional support to the youngster's family.

Murder squad detectives have made a total of 16 arrests in connection with the inquiry but all the suspects have been released. Eleven people have been bailed, with a further five released without charge. These five are now being treated as witnesses.

Police are keen to speak to a number of people who they believe may hold crucial information in connection with the murder hunt.