Letter: Mark Houghton's family says thank you

Letter: September 22, 2010, will be etched in our memories forever. The knock on the door that every parent never wants to receive, when the police inform you that your child has passed away.

This is a side of policing that fortunately many will never experience, but it is a role they must fulfil. The sad news was delivered, but the support the police gave us was amazing.

We would also like to extend our thanks to the Sutherland School, New College, TCAT, the International Centre, the Shropshire Star, Hadley & Leegomery Parish Council, Randlay & Hollinswood Parish Council, PRH, elected members of T&W Council, Ink, our neighbours, friends and strangers, all of whom offered amazing support to us. You were all a tower of strength to us.

We would like to extend our most sincere thanks to the hundreds of Telford teenagers who came together and supported us as well as each other.

In a day and age when so many young people get a bad press they all showed their true colours. Young people who are strong, caring and a real credit to themselves and their families. They are our future and our future couldn't be in better hands.

Out of something so bad, we discovered something so good. That was the caring nature of the people of Telford and the community spirit that they have.

Our son Mark will be sadly missed.

We thank you all from the bottom of our hearts.

Thank you

John, Pam, Ann-Marie, Katrina and Frances Houghton

Leegomery