West Calder mum ‘wouldn’t have let daughter stay with dad if she thought she was in danger’

West Calder: A mother is heartbroken after the tragic death of her six-year-old daughter, Hope. She says she would never have let her stay with her dad if she thought there was any danger.

Hope was found dead with her father, Mark, in what police suspect was a murder-suicide. The alarm was raised when Hope didn’t show up for school, prompting officers to check on them.

Margaret Cairns, Hope’s mum, is devastated and struggling to cope. Her friend Melanie has been by her side, trying to help her through this unimaginable loss.

Melanie shared that if there had been any signs that Mark could harm Hope, Margaret wouldn’t have allowed her to visit. She emphasized that there were no red flags leading up to this tragedy.

Margaret and Hope had a close bond, and now she just wants to remember her daughter for who she was, not for the circumstances of her death.

Melanie has set up a fundraiser to help cover funeral costs, which has already raised over £6,000 in just two days. Hope was a bright, popular girl who loved animals and was learning French at a young age.

The community is in shock, mourning the loss of such a vibrant child. Melanie described Hope as an amazing little girl with a beautiful smile, and everyone who knew her loved her.

Police are continuing their investigation and have urged anyone with information to come forward. They are providing support to the grieving families during this difficult time.