Laurie Merriman wept as she joined a farewell procession for her nine-year-old daughter, Minnie Merriman, who was allegedly murdered by her father. The procession took place yesterday in Arbroath, Angus, and was accompanied by bikers and a piper.
Minnie was discovered with injuries shortly after midnight on August 3 at the Elliot industrial estate in Arbroath. She later died in the hospital. Her father, 35-year-old Christopher Rice, has been charged with her murder and was remanded in custody after appearing at Forfar Sheriff Court.
At the time of Minnie's injuries, the family had been camping nearby. Yesterday, Ms. Merriman held a bunny with her daughter's name on it while leaning against the van carrying Minnie's body. The van began its journey to Wakefield, Yorkshire, three weeks after the child's death.
A large number of mourners gathered for the seaside memorial service. Ms. Merriman was comforted by friends and family throughout the procession. She placed flowers, toys, and other tributes next to the van.
The mother had been in Scotland awaiting permission to transport Minnie's body home. The industrial estate where Minnie was injured had previously seen floral tributes left by local residents during the police investigation.
Separately, it was reported earlier this month that National Health Service staff allegedly accessed Minnie's medical records. NHS Tayside, the health board operating the hospital, stated it was investigating claims that staff accessed the girl's records without clinical necessity or authorization. Emergency services, including four ambulances, were called to the estate after Minnie's injuries. Minnie and three other individuals were taken to the hospital, where Minnie later passed away. Rice was taken separately, treated, and discharged before his arrest.
A spokesperson for NHS Tayside confirmed an investigation into an alleged data breach within a clinical area where patient information is accessed. The health board stated that any data protection breach would be investigated and, if appropriate, reported to the Information Commissioner's Office. The spokesperson declined further comment on individual staffing matters.