‘We hold on to positives on eighth anniversary of death’

ON THE eighth anniversary of the killing of Guernsey woman Sarah Groves, her parents have been reflecting on her numerous positive legacies.

Sarah Groves was killed eight years ago today.

Sarah was killed on 6 April 2013, at the age of 24, while in Kashmir, Northern India.

The Sarah Groves Foundation was created at the end of 2013 and its latest project is a new children’s playground in Sark, which is scheduled to open in May.

The redevelopment of the Guilles-Alles Library’s children library, where the main room bears the name The Sarah Groves Room, has seen a significant increase in the number of young people using the area.

The story tower at the Guille-Alles Library has been transformed thanks to funding from the Sarah Groves Foundation. The main room of the children’s library is The Sarah Groves Room. (Picture by Sophie Rabey, 29403085)

The improvement of the story tower at the library, which was fully funded by the foundation last year, has been particularly popular. In a six-week period at the end of 2020, more than 1,300 children attended to listen to stories.

The opening of the refurbished story tower. Left to right, Gavin Rihoy, J.W. Rihoy & Son Ltd, Oliver Westgarth CCD Architects, Kate and Vic Groves, Sarah’s parents, Ian Bloese, trustee of the library and Cornelia James, children and young people’s services manager. (Picture by Sophie Rabey, 29403082)

During February, Guernsey Post announced the launch of stamps called Clematis Gold in Sarah’s memory.

The sheet series depicted award-winning clematis which had been cultivated by world-renowned nurseryman and Guernsey grower Raymond Evison.

Each of the clematis depicted on the stamps has been part of his gold medal displays at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

Mr Evison said it was a tribute to Sarah.

‘The Sarah Elizabeth is a breakthrough as regards its flower colour, being a unique shade of pink to any other clematis plant on the market.

‘Its stunning prominent anthers remind one of Sarah’s delightful, naturally long eyelashes, which was behind the selection process of the variety to be named after Sarah, as well as its cheery brightly coloured sepals.’

Family and friends of Sarah said the tragedy and its ongoing devastating effects would be much worse without all the positive legacies and the support of everyone in Guernsey.

Her parents, Vic and Kate, thanked everyone for their support, sympathy and understanding.

Dutch national Richard de Wit is on trial for her murder, but the trial has been delayed many times, a situation exacerbated by Covid-19.

After well over 200 scheduled hearings, there are signs that it is close to reaching a verdict.