A Fife teenager brutally murdered just yards from her home a decade ago is to be honoured in a poignant act of remembrance.
Karen Dewar, 16, was killed just yards from her home on January 20 2005 at the hands of 17-year-old Colyn Evans.
He was later sentenced to detention for life, with the condition he serve at least 17 years.
Next Saturday at 3pm, to commemorate the anniversary of her death, residents of Tayport will hold a remembrance service for the student.
Karen’s parents Frank and Allison will be among those at the commemoration.
The ceremony will involve many of Karen’s friends releasing balloons from the garden set up in her memory.
The colourful yet poignant display was Karen’s parents’ idea.
After the balloon release, the family will share some private time together.
“Karen’s Garden” opened in January 2008 following a fundraising campaign which raised more than £50,000.
The garden was developed by students at Elmwood College, where Karen was studying childcare.
It also features a sculpture by Newburgh-based artist Gail van Heerden entitled Free Spirit and many lilac plants in recognition of Karen’s favourite colour.
Taybridgehead Fife councillor Maggie Taylor, who helped organised the event but will be unable to attend, told The Courier: “This is a very sad time for all Karen’s family and friends.
“Karen’s Garden in Castle Street, which was created through donations given from family, friends and residents and planted with flowers of Karen’s favourite colour, is a lovely area to look at when passing or to sit in and think.”
On the day of the opening, Karen’s dad Frank thanked everyone who had been involved in creating the “beautiful, peaceful place”.
The ceremony was attended by 200 of her friends.