GRIEVING families are urging the public to get behind their bid to build a cairn in memory of Inverclyde’s victims of violent crime.

Leading anti knife campaigner John Muir hopes they will support of a permanent memorial to all those who have lost their lives as a result of violence.

John’s son Damian was murdered in July 2007 and his death provoked a huge outpouring of anger that led to the Tele’s ‘Stop Knives Save Lives’ campaign and a law change bid.

They now hope to have the cairn in place this year – as they continue to target what they believe is a lack of recognition from the authorities for victims of violence and their families.

Inverclyde Anti Knife founder John, pictured, said: “The cairn is very important to us and will be somewhere for families to go.

“But it will also be a message about the impact that violent crime and knives have in Inverclyde.

“It’s difficult for all the families. – I know it is very emotional for me and my family.

“Every day it is hard “In some ways it is hard to believe it is nine years since Damian died.

“But it is not just me, there are so many families out there who are grieving and a real ripple effect for us all.

“Damian’s death had an impact on so many people - there were his friends, his football teams and his work colleagues.

“His friends at IBM sent me a beautiful book of condolence that brings tears to the eyes.”

Inverclyde Anti Knife Group is continuing to put pressure on the authorities to take action and do much more to support victims.

They were instrumental in helping to force ministers to look again at sentencing of violent offenders.

The Scottish Government recently announced plans to scrap early release for those sentenced for more than four years.

The group is also continuing to call for a commissioner for victims of crime.

John added: “There is a commissioner for prisoners.

“No-one represents the victims and this needs to change.

“The Justice Secretary announced plans for £1.8 million for prison visitor centres to help prisoners’ families.

“What about the families of victims? Nothing.”

Activists announced plans for the memorial cairn last year and they are now pressing ahead with it. John and the group are looking at designs for the cairn with support from Rig Arts and Canata & Seggie Architects.

They are also discussing possible locations.

John added: “We would really welcome feedback from the public on this.”

The Inverclyde Anti Knife Group can be contacted via their Facebook page.