Hundreds of locals came together in Aberdeen last night to hold a candle-light vigil in memory of alleged murder victim Jill Barclay.
Jill's body was found at an address at Stoneywood Road in Dyce at around 3.30am on Saturday, September 17. Cops confirmed yesterday that Rhys Bennett, 22, has been charged in connection with the murder and attempting to defeat the ends of justice. He has been remanded in custody and is expected to reappear within the next eight days for another hearing.
The vigil will continue tonight when the local Dyce Parish Church will open its doors at 8-9pm to allow locals to come in and light a candle.
Police tape still cordoned off the area last night but candles, flowers and pictures were laid at the scene as locals turned out to pay their respects to the 'amazing' 47-year-old.
Many local residents paid tribute to Jill on a community page after the vigil last night.
One woman said: "What a fabulous turn out for such an amazing lady. Jill, you will forever be in the hearts of the Dyce and Stoneywood community."
Another woman said: "I laid flowers today, I didn’t know Jill but I am absolutely devastated for her family, friends and loved ones."
One commented: "This is really lovely to see. I will be going tomorrow but she remains in my thoughts every moment of the day."
And a woman added: "It is really fantastic to see the community come together for Jill and her lovely family."
We previously told how after the body was formally identified, the mum-of-two’s family issued a heartbreaking statement through Police Scotland.
They said: “Jill was a deeply loved life partner, mother and daughter. We would now appreciate being left in peace to grieve privately.”
Two of her devastated pals have now set up a fundraising page to help cover the costs of her funeral. A statement on the GoFundMe page read: “Jill was a much loved partner, daughter, a parent of two, the best friend, a kickboxing ninja , a raver - a human with a heart of gold and true to the core.
“In light of Jill, she loved to party, when we have hit our milestone target we will have a - ‘Rave it like your Jill’ event here in Stoneywood. In this dark time let’s come together as one as a community and raise as much funds as we possibly can for her beautiful family.”
Detective Superintendent Andrew Patrick, of Police Scotland’s Major Investigation Team, said following Ms Barclay's death: "Our thoughts are very much with Jill’s family and friends at what is a very difficult time for them.
"We have a dedicated team of officers in the area working on this investigation and I would like to reassure the community that they can speak to them if they have any concerns."
To donate to the fundraiser in Jill's memory, visit here.
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