Bailey Gwynne’s family have spoken of their heartbreak at losing their son – describing him as a ‘sweet boy with a big dream’.
It is the first time his mother Kate Gwynne and father John Henderson have spoken out since their son’s death at Cults Academy in October last year.
Read the statement in full, below:
“Whatever the outcome was to be in this trial nothing will give us back what has been taken and the only thing that we truly want. That is something that we as a family must try to live with.
“Our priority through the time of this trial was to be there for Bailey. That remains our priority along with guiding our sons, his brothers, through this. That is inevitably a long road, but we will never lose sight of Bailey while walking it.
“We have appreciated greatly the support of all those around us and those close to us, whether it has been practical or emotional. We know that everyone around us has done their utmost for Bailey and we appreciate and greatly admire the fairness and integrity shown to all parties by the prosecuting counsel. We cannot praise highly enough the police, our lovely family liaison officers and the fiscal staff.
“We understand in these circumstances why there is press interest to hear a story. But Bailey is not a story. Bailey is our child. He is our son, and our heart, our brother, our grandson, our nephew, cousin and our friend and beloved master of Teddy the Pug.
“Our sweet boy with a big dream working hard to make it happen. A boy who was never happier than when chilling out with his friends and his dog after a session in the gym.
“The boy who would carry his brothers to the top on a hill walk when their own legs failed them, who dutifully cut the grass for his Dad or rescued his Nonna’s shopping and the boy who would come with me on an evening run just to keep me company in the dark even though he could finish it in half the time.
“We will always be immensely proud that Bailey is our son. We now need time and space to come to terms with what has happened and to continue to care for our family and those dear to Bailey.
“Lastly, it has always been a true blessing and a privilege to have Bailey and to share the honour of knowing, raising and loving him. That is not something that time or our parting will ever change.
“Bailey-Bazza, my true gent. With love we hold you in our hearts. Walk tall Bailey-Boy.” – Kate Gwynne
