Letter: Mark Houghton’s family says thank you
Wednesday 13th October 2010, 9:45AM BST.
Letter: September 22, 2010, will be etched in our memories forever. The knock on the door that every parent never wants to receive, when the police inform you that your child has passed away.
This is a side of policing that fortunately many will never experience, but it is a role they must fulfil. The sad news was delivered, but the support the police gave us was amazing.
We would also like to extend our thanks to the Sutherland School, New College, TCAT, the International Centre, the Shropshire Star, Hadley & Leegomery Parish Council, Randlay & Hollinswood Parish Council, PRH, elected members of T&W Council, Ink, our neighbours, friends and strangers, all of whom offered amazing support to us. You were all a tower of strength to us.
We would like to extend our most sincere thanks to the hundreds of Telford teenagers who came together and supported us as well as each other.
In a day and age when so many young people get a bad press they all showed their true colours. Young people who are strong, caring and a real credit to themselves and their families. They are our future and our future couldn’t be in better hands.
Out of something so bad, we discovered something so good. That was the caring nature of the people of Telford and the community spirit that they have.
Our son Mark will be sadly missed.
We thank you all from the bottom of our hearts.
Thank you
John, Pam, Ann-Marie, Katrina and Frances Houghton
Leegomery
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It says something about the goodwill and strength of character of this family that they can write such a thoughtful letter after such a personal tragedy.
For all the trouble, strife and bad news in this country at the moment, it is things like this that occasionally make us see what *really* matters. The power of perspective, I suppose you could say.
‘Well done’ to all those that the Houghton family mention in their letter – especially West Mercia Police, and of course sympathies to a very unselfish family.
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What a lovely and thoughtful letter by a family who has shown wonderful character and decency in the face of their personal tragedy.
I have delivered the “Knock” as a police officer and no matter how often one does it the right words are never enough for an officer who cares.
Good to see that the officers in this case were appreciated for that most difficult of tasks.
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It was truly a wonderful letter that this poor family wrote to all; to thank them for their support. It was also lovely to see how the Police were thanked for their support to this family. I my self now how valuable their support and kindness can be in sad situations. Thankfully not many of us will see this side to the police but it should be reconized as they are a life line for some families on how to cope and what should or needs to be done after loosing a loved one.
Sending all my thoughts to the family .
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love you markuss!!! u will never be forgotten..
i love you all so much….. you know i will always be here for you love teeni xx
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