Daughter of Hero Dunblane Teacher’s Determination to Keep Legacy Fund Alive
The daughter of the heroic school teacher murdered in the Dunblane Tragedy is rallying to safeguard the charitable trust set up in her memory. Brave Gwen Mayor died while trying to protect her primary one pupils at Dunblane Primary who had been preparing for a PE lesson when evil struck on March 13, 1996. The Gwen Mayor Memorial Trust – a charitable trust set up by the education union the Educational Institute for Scotland (EIS) – was established in her memory. It provides financial support for projects in arts, culture, music or sport and applications – from primary schools across Scotland – are submitted to the trustees.
However, her daughter Debbie says that despite running and supporting schools for almost 30 years, the number of applications it receives has worryingly fallen. Trustee membership has also dwindled, and she is now fighting to raise awareness of the cause to keep her hero mum’s legacy alive. Her efforts have been backed by TV icon Lorraine Kelly.
Speaking to the Observer, Debbie expressed her concerns that the trust could be in jeopardy, which she says would be both disrespectful and understandable. EIS insists that the trust is in good financial health as it continues to support projects across the country. Debbie is reaching out for additional trustees to oversee applications and help contribute to this worthwhile cause.
TV star Lorraine took to her social media channels to share her support for Debbie and raise awareness of the trust, highlighting the valuable funding available for projects to enhance pupils’ experiences in areas Gwen Mayor was passionate about. Gwen was killed instantly in the tragedy that claimed 17 lives, including 16 young pupils and herself. An EIS spokesperson reiterated the commitment to continue supporting primary school projects as a lasting legacy to Gwen Mayor’s memory.
Debbie’s determination to ensure her mother’s legacy lives on through the trust is inspiring. By actively seeking help to sustain the trust, she is not only honouring her mother’s legacy but also ensuring that the projects and causes her mother cared about continue to receive support. The community’s response and Lorraine Kelly’s backing demonstrate the importance of preserving such legacies and the impact they can have on future generations.