Sister of murdered pregnant Glasgow teacher raises money in her memory

The sister of murdered primary school teacher Marelle Sturrock has raised thousands of pounds in her memory a year after she was killed by her fiance.

The 35-year-old was 29 weeks pregnant when David Yates, 36, bludgeoned her to death with a hammer at their home last April. Her unborn son, Jayden, didn't survive.

Police immediately launched a manhunt for Yates, whose body was found two days later at Mugdock Country park in Milngavie. His death was not treated as suspicious, reports the Record.

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Investigators believe the murder was premeditated after Yates dropped the couple's beloved Labrador at his mum's house the night before Marelle's death.

Her sister Sarah Sturrock has now raised more than £4,000 for a Labrador rescue charity in a moving tribute to her sister.

She walked the length of the North Coast 500 over 52 days, completing the trek on the anniversary of Marelle’s death.

She shared: "I am raising money for Labrador Rescue Scotland in memory of my little sister who was tragically taken from us 23rd April 2023 pregnant with her first baby.

"I had given myself 52 days to walk the North Coast 500 which takes me up to a year from when she was found.

"It’s a virtual challenge so let’s hope the weather is kind to me and my 4 legged pals."

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Marelle had moved from Wick to Glasgow aged 17 to pursue a career in the performing arts. She later trained as a teacher and had been working at Sandwood Primary School in Glasgow.

The mum-to-be was pictured enjoying a dinner out with friends just hours before she was found dead at her home.

Her colleagues had raised concerns for her safety when she failed to show up to work the following day. Police later discovered her body inside her home.

Her parents Colin and Lorna Sturrock paid tribute to their daughter and their unborn grandson Jayden following the tragedy last year.

They said: “We are devastated following the deaths of our daughter, Marelle, and soon to be grandson, Jayden Sturrock. Marelle was the happiest person you could ever meet and was always looking to help others the best she could.

"Marelle and her partner doted on each other, and this incident has come as a total shock to all who knew her.

“We would like to thank family and friends, colleagues at Sandwood Primary School, police officers, both in the Highlands and Glasgow, for their efforts and comforting support following our tragic event.”