GOODBYE, DEAREST HOLLY

Hardback. Some tragedies become part of our national consciousness. On August 4 2002, Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman disappeared. For the next 13 days, their families, the police, and the local community searched for them, while the nation watched in horrified suspense. Holly was a talented 10yr old girl. Her parents, Kevin and Nicola, were certain she would be the first member of their family to go to university. Almost 2 weeks after Holly and Jessica went missing, their bodies were found - dumped in a ditch and badly burned. Two days later, Ian Huntley was charged with their murders. In the terrible weeks that followed Kevin started to make notes, fearful that he might forget important details. This book tells the story of the nightmare that began on August 4th, from the moment it became clear that Holly and Jessica were missing, through the long investigation and its aftermath. An unflinching tale of surviving tragedy, Kevin's diaries tell of battles with the media, police bureaucracy, and legal system. The book includes a gripping account of the trial and convictions of Huntley and Maxine Carr. Above all, its a loving final act of fatherhood. Illus. in colour. 277pp. 8vo. h/back. From the library of true crime writer, Wilfred Gregg, with his personal b/plate. F. in F. dw.