Holly Buchanan laid to rest after eight years

By ALAN FERGUSON
Published on 23/02/2013 00:26

SCHOOLGIRL Holly Buchanan was finally laid to rest yesterday nearly eight years after she died in a boating accident on Loch Lomond.

Holly, who was 13 at the time, and her father Angus, 45, were thrown into the loch when the rigid inflatable boat they were in malfunctioned and lurched to one side at almost 60mph in March 2005.

Holly’s sister, Chloe, wrestled with the controls, turned back and leapt into the freezing water in a bid to save them, but they both drowned.

Until now, Holly’s mother, Hilary, has been unable to hold a funeral for her daughter.

Last November, a foot was washed up on Inchmoan Island on the loch after storms and heavy rainfall.

Scientists at Glasgow University conducted DNA tests and earlier this month announced that it belonged to Holly.

Subsequent searches have failed to locate any further remains of Holly or her father.

Yesterday, about 200 mourners packed into Baldernock Parish Church in Milngavie for Holly’s funeral.

A tearful address was given by her best friend, Hannah Brechin, during the service by led Reverend Roddy Hamilton.

Ms Brechin said: “Everyone has special memories they will remember her for. I couldn’t have asked for a better friend growing up and she will always be a part of all of our lives.

“She was an amazing sister, daughter and best friend. She made a huge impact on everyone and I’m sure I speak for everyone when I stay none of us will forget her.

“There’s not a day that goes by I don’t think about my best friend.”