Figen Murray, the mother of a victim of the Manchester Arena bombing, is embarking on a 200-mile walk from the site where her son was killed to Downing Street. This journey is not just a physical one, but a symbolic one, as she demands stronger protections against terrorism in the UK. The proposed Martyn’s Law, named after her son Martyn Hett, aims to enforce training requirements and preventative plans against terror attacks for venues and local authorities.
A Personal Tragedy
The tragic loss of Martyn Hett in the 2017 attack at an Ariana Grande concert changed Figen Murray’s life forever. She believes that her son’s death could have been prevented if basic security measures were in place that night. This belief has fueled her tireless campaign to ensure that no parent has to suffer the pain and loss that she experiences daily.
Joining her on this 16-day walk are family, friends, politicians, security experts, and members of the public. The walk will culminate in Downing Street on the seventh anniversary of Martyn’s death. Figen Murray’s message to the Prime Minister is clear: honor the commitment to introduce legislation that will enhance security and protections at public venues. Martyn’s Law was promised in the 2019 Conservative manifesto but has yet to progress beyond the draft stage.
As Figen Murray makes her way from Manchester to London, she will stop at memorials for victims of terror attacks along the route. The purpose of these visits is to pay respects to those who have lost their lives to senseless acts of violence. Her plea to the government is simple – keep the promise to implement Martyn’s Law and prevent future tragedies.
Figen Murray’s courage and determination to turn her personal tragedy into a force for change is truly inspiring. Her journey from the spot where her son died to the seat of government is a poignant reminder of the human cost of terrorism. It is imperative that the government acts swiftly to honor its commitment to strengthen protections against terrorism and prevent further loss of innocent lives.
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