Archive for the ‘Older’ Category

February 2008

Thursday, February 7th, 2008

Friday 22nd February 2008

Well, not long back in from the Smoke (aka ‘London’) after Sylvie’s Stomp around Westminster! What can you say, to all those that turned out, two bus loads with others arriving by train from around the country and travelling down by car to get involved, all midweek was just incredible, thank you.

It was foggy as we left the village which felt a bit like the fog that has hung over all involved for the last few years or so, but the sun tried to break through as we arrived on the embankment. Maybe at the end of all this the fog that some of these experts hide in will also be blown away.

It really amazes me that the more I read about what certain experts say in Shaken Baby Cases or Sudden Impact cases changes from one case to another a total turnaround. One case its black the next its white, give me my money and I’ll be off, seems the general theme.

Now the money as a motive is a long standing gripe, but the fact the CPS maybe don’t look at the experts very closely and say ‘hang on didn’t you always say you needed x, y and z’? Yet in the next case you said you don’t……which is it?

Here is a thought, can it be a fair trial if all the experts are technically working for the Crown (Government). Or if working in their own time then they must be an independent expert, so they lose the protection that the Crown gives them so people in cases like this and many others can then sue them for damages. Of course though if they work for Government bodies the money they earn, must go into the public purse…right as a revenue stream?

You see it’s not the money that worries me. I would quite happily take all the Scouts on a camp somewhere, if awarded compensation, but let’s see if they, the experts, are then brave enough to put their money where their opinions are and agree to not have that protection. I believe that in the States a couple accused of SBS/SIDS are suing the ‘experts’ as it was found out to be wrong. I am trying to find out more to se if it’s something we could have in the UK.

Maybe with the risk of their lives being totally destroyed they (the experts) may not be so hasty to give opinions on theories. These renegade ‘experts’ need bringing to heel and as an ex dog handler I reckon I can help in my small way. But when this ends I amongst others will be demanding a Public enquiry into why after the guidance in the Harris case and all the other miscarriages of justice, does this just keep on happening. British Justice used to be held in high regard……

I was chatting to a family member a little while ago, as some of you may know I looked in to moving abroad to Australia to join the Police there, in truth I looked at New Zealand, Canada and a few of the Caribbean Islands. The Caribbean ones in a lot of cases you had to be single, I didn’t mind, but apparently Keran and the Kids did?!! But a friend recently moved out to start Policing in Canada and I have a good few friends who are cops in Oz. Anyway my cousin was asking if I had seen the recent adverts, but obviously with everything going on though, it’s an option on the back burner.

I must admit it did start me thinking about patrolling Wide Open spaces like Oz, as I am used to that…in Central London, we had Kangaroos and Wallabies in Regents Park if I remember rightly! I have patrolled Beaches before (whilst in the forces - not many in London…though there are some I looked), so Bondi sounds like my kind of ‘patch’. Surfing too!

It has been awhile since thinking Policey thoughts, but it also came on the back of a letter Keran had received form another prisoner, at another jail, saying how much they supported her and also how sad it was that I left the Police. I have another letter to send to Keran from another Prisoner who wrote to the HQ after again reading the article in the press, saying how shocked they were at the system. Neither protesting their innocence nor asking for anything, they had just taken the time to care. Presently I am never ceased to be amazed at the world around us for all the doom and gloom, there is so much good, why don’t we focus on that?

But to finish on the Police point, one of the writers I just mentioned said it was a shame the Police had lost me (I know some colleagues that would disagree!! ;-)  ) But when your faith has been rocked it takes it out of you. I do miss it at times and there are of course many good cops out there, who are just sometimes so tired of it all and just get on with what has to be done. Maybe they all need a change, and we should all go off to OZ! Many UK officers do go, some come back, but maybe a change is a good as a rest!

A new report recently said that we can’t sustain the number of Police Officers we have now in the UK….do you think we have enough? Maybe that’s the Home Office way of saying go now! Cos we ain’t paying you anymore anyway!

Sorry the experts led me off the garden path there…….back to the Hike around London!

Moving back to the Stomp things moved on and we met up with our local MP Dominic Grieve and John Hemmings MP, at Parliament, to hand over the first petition not just stating Keran’s case but that of all the others like hers should not proceed unless backed up with ‘real’ evidence. We passed by a campaign for an English Parliament, looking good with all the flags of St George (you don’t see enough flags in London, English & British especially - but hats off to the Prison service, they do fly them).
We also passed the guy who protests about the War, now that’s a man with staying power, unlike some of the people who sent our troops in under equipped.

Just a thought maybe those that send them in should go in to combat too? With no Body Armour, not enough Helicopters to CASEVAC you out or enough bullets? Nawh…….we will be out without a shoot being fired didn’t someone once say……read your history……is what I said at the time but what do I know. Anyway on my soap box again so moving along….

From there with Police escort we headed to The Ministry of Justice to had a copy over to Jack Straws team before taking a short break in St James Park for snacks and ‘comfort’ breaks (people wouldn’t believe me when I said they had to go to the loo in the bushes - the WC’s are hidden in them, I wasn’t encouraging any offences, honest).

Whilst we waited I set the challenge to the kids to find the machine gun nests covering the park and Horse-guard’s parade and the Mall, they are there you just got to know where to look. Next time you’re in London have a look. You thought big brother was bad nowadays tapping phones and CCTV, well in 1940 they had Bren Guns overlooking you!

It was so nice having so many Kids, Young Adults and the Young at Heart on board today, because they are truly what means so much to Keran and that’s why this ridiculous charge hurts her so much.

Once refreshed we left the Park and headed up via the Clive Steps to No.10. Once there, our youngest son (the eldest waited outside - not sure if he trusted me to knock at the right door!), myself, Sylvie, Alison, Suzanne and Mandy made our way down to NO.10 after being searched - some people asked to be searched twice (…no names…no pack drill). The BBC had two crews there one from Panorama and the other from BBC London. My son even through this nightmare he has lived through, got a little treat, which was to ring the door bell at No.10, we did think about ringing and running away, but we felt the copper on the door might point out which way we had gone and give the game away!

So we handed over the petition, to then return to the crowd of people outside, I can’t adequately describe what this all feels like at times, at the heart of all of this is the sad loss of Maeve, but then as I walked out with my son I had so many mixed emotions for those responsible for wrongly imprisoning my wife. But once out of the gates and seeing all those dozens of people brings it right back to you. If we do get a retrial and God willing we do, we didn’t call all the Character Witnesses and supporters but next time we will, and by God I will personally question these blinkered profiteering experts. Just looking at the support fills me with strength and the boys.

A massive thanks has to go to Sylvie and team for organising the petition drop, having to liaise with the Met Police, the MP’s, Downing Street, and the Ministry of Justice. Well done, someone suggested you organise a tour of London next with me doing the tour with Tony the Coach driver! For a fee, all for the funds of course. But not sure London is ready for that!

Big thanks to the Officers who saw us safely through London and into the places we needed to be.

The day before Sylvie’s Stomp as we nicknamed it, myself and the boys got to see Keran for 5 hours on a family day, it was the closet to real family time we have had in many months, the boys gets to talk to their mum, usually slating my cooking (they loved Jane’s Cake though - I should have claimed credit for that), washing, ironing etc! But I can take it, had to take worse over the last few years after all!!

Time on visits is never long enough and I am glad the boys are so strong and of an age they can understand a bit more, as the week before we watched as two little children, one boy and one girl, had to be nearly torn from their mums at the end of their visits by their other parent. God alone knows what damage that could do long term.

As I have sat and wrote this update it is now officially 100 days since Keran was wrongfully imprisoned. For those that had a part in my wife’s wrongful imprisonment, may God have mercy on your souls, cos quite frankly, I still ain’t that big enough to forgive you yet. Maybe in time, but to have to see my boys leave their mum, is something I cannot forgive and something I find disgusting, appalling and shocking after all the other miscarriages.

Regards to all of you

Iain and Family

Wednesday 20th February 2008

Prosecution Witness Waney Squier casts grave doubts on the conviction of Keran Henderson

In a piece on the News at Ten tonight two jurors and expert Prosecution Witness Waney Squier cast further doubt on the safety of Keran’s conviction.

The jurors, who had already come out with their concerns said they felt angry and concerned at the verdict.

They said that the evidence they heard in the court room was very confusing, which begs the question, if the jury didn’t understand what they were hearing, how could they find her guilty?

One of the jurors summed it up perfectly with the sentence, “What appears as evidence is opinion and that’s how that case was judged.”

Then more damningly for the conviction against Keran, Prosecution witness in the case Waney Squier said there was bleeding and swelling indicating some sort of impact but you couldn’t say how that happened.

“It’s quite impossible to tell from neuropathology whether this was accidental or inflicted and its quite impossible to say whether it happened within 2 hours or 24 hours of death.We just can’t be that precise. We don’t have the mechanisms to do that.”

Then in one of the most important parts of the piece she went on to say that, “As far as shaking is concerned there’s nothing in at all in this case that would suggest to me that this is a shaking injury.”

The appeal is being prepared, but surely after this there can be no reason for it not to be heard.

Wednesday 20th February 2008

Today’s ‘Stomp’ was a great success. The march to hand in the Petition went extremely well. Read more about it here. Well done to Sylvia for an excellently organised event.

Thursday 14th February 2008

Kendrick - Not Gulity!

We are extremely pleased Colin Kendrick has been found not guilty. The jury have heard from two of the same experts used in Keran’s case and reached a different verdict so we are hope that this is yet another reason for the Attorney General to review her case. We wish Colin and Sarah Jane the best of luck in rebuilding their shattered lives.

During this case, the evidence of Professor Rupert Risdon, one of the experts in Keran’s case was disputed by other experts. Below is an article from ‘The Echo; during the trial.

Tot death: ‘Shaking not likely’

AN AMERICAN pathologist said there was “no convincing evidence” a toddler who suffered head and body injuries was shaken to death.

Dr John Plunkett said 19-month-old Aimee Collins’s brain, spinal cord and abdominal injuries may not have been caused by an assault.

Professor Rupert Risdon, the UK’s only paediatric forensic pathologist, had previously told Basildon Crown Court the toddler was probably attacked within 15-minutes of her mother, Sarah-Jane Collins, leaving the flat she shared with Colin Kendrick, in Eden Green, South Ockendon.

Dr Plunkett said this was possible but “extremely unlikely”.

He told the court yesterday: “If shaking caused Aimee’s injuries, she would have had to have been subjected to a force in excess of 2,100lbs.

“In addition she most likely would have suffered major structural neck damage.”

Kendrick, 31, denies murdering Aimee on December 6, 2005.

The trial continues.

30/01/08

6th February 2008

It has been decided by the Carers4carers committee that, for various reasons, the ribbons and posters in Iver Heath and surrounding areas will be taken down.

We appreciate that there are strong feelings within the area that they should remain, but we would request that they are not put back up and if you wish to show your support for Keran, please do so on your private property.

The Committee are looking into other ways to show the community support for Keran so please check the website in the near future!

January 2008

Monday, January 7th, 2008

Tuesday 29th January 2008

Just settling down after a run over to Basildon earlier today to see yet another SBS case under way, we went to meet the legal team in action and we saw both the new Barrister and QC doing what they do.

There were 2 experts in today one called I believe Professor Luther and then John Plunkett the US Doctor who came into the later aspects of our case, but who the CPS said couldn’t speak on several areas and who they would stick on some of their experts again to try and chip away at Mr Plunkett’s points (I was censored when I mentioned him on the website! God bless the GDR or is that GB)?

I have just read an article on the Times on Line from the Foreman of Keran’s Jury who raises questions about whether juries are well equipped to look at cases like these. We decided not to use Plunkett to save the jury the hardship of listening yet again to the CPS ‘experts’. But maybe they had decided long ago on the pure emotive side, and well someone’s in the dock they must be guilty, by the sounds of it.

Well, it was a ‘dry’ dock there was nothing in it (not just because Keran was removed by the Judge as he felt her not a threat so she could sit with the legal team as it happens), NO substance at all to the case…but the jurors didn’t want or some maybe didn’t understand the difference between evidence and opinions on hypotheses. Lets hope their ship is sailing off over the edge of their ‘flat world’.

I am really keen that lessons are learnt parents and carers will not be safe until we can stop these theories spouted by few, destroying many. Its not for me to go into the case on at Basildon, but it does seem that a few things don’t seem to add up again. The Triad seems to be a huge part of it of course, interesting that if you look around some Doctors in Canada are now distancing themselves from the Triad or parts of it with increasing speed.

I wish I had seen the likes of Risdon, Esldon and Stoodley giving evidence, as they gave ‘opinion’ in Keran’s case and I was having to wait until called by the defence so couldn’t sit in there till they had gone. There are other cases to come no doubt as all these seem to be coming out now after the absence of experts in 2005. So hopefully we will catch up with them then, to see what they have to say.

It was very strange today to see the drama going on and not being a personal part of it all. I just hope Justice will be done.

Back home yet another event was taking place after the weekends singing after a few spirits! This time it was more to do with spirits, as Karen had organised through a friend a Clairvoyant evening! It was getting very busy as I left and again I hope all went well and people had fun whilst fundraising. I just hope there weren’t too many but at at least a taster could be given.

The Car Stickers turned up tonight and were being sold as well as people putting their name down on the petition and for the March (Stomp), a huge thank you to all for all their work & support again.

I think thats about it for now. Stay safe and believe in your heart and not always what experts tell you! An expert once said to me I would never amount to anything….okay so sometimes they get things right!

Monday 28th January 2008

Not much of an update at the mo, as we are all busy organising events or doing research etc.

Tomorrow sees us going to Basildon for a road trip, to see the Legal team in action and see yet another SBS case brought by the experts.

I wonder how many more are out there. I reckon there will be quite a few or ones for Sudden Impact or the like. As we had to wait many months along with Maeve’s parents to find out if there was going to be any action. As I have said before it seems odd the delay fell in with Meadows suspension.

One thing I read the other day from Canada, was that on Doctor said he felt embarrassed to say he had previously believed in SBS and now says even a simple ear infection could do the damage. Which if true, imagine how scary that would be?!

We had a Karaoke event the other night to raise funds, the boys do enjoy seeing all of you out there supporting their mum, as they obviously miss her greatly but it is an easing of their (albeit temporary) loss to see the support she has been getting.

It was a great night and huge thank you to all those that turned up, those that helped (from running the bar, to getting prizes, selling event & raffle tickets and running the disco and Karaoke) and to Louse for bringing it all together.

I have to apologise for any eardrums I may have split with my singing, there is now a court order preventing me from singing again, Simon Cowell, even pulled his trousers up over his chest position, right over his head to drown out the noise!

This week we have another couple of events, both sell-outs (Clairvoyant and Dinner Dance) and I know more tickets were printed for both doubling the one on Tuesday and adding to the second.

All I can say is thank you very much to all those that are busy working on them, and for those to come afterwards, the Jumble sale, Ferret Racing and Quiz night. I hope to pick up a Ferret at the Jumble sale that’s good at General Knowledge as I may need all the help I can get.

Anyway best sign off, the M25 awaits tomorrow morning. Keran asked me to pass on her thanks to you all and is so amazed by the dozens of messages coming in from the articles and the website, from people who either simply just care or those that tragically have suffered themselves which makes me more determined to stop the rot.

Stay safe and keep you loved ones near, and try never to underestimate the time we are given.

Thursday 24th January 2008

Just a few more thoughts and observations for the Captains Blog day 72 whilst watching TV last night, typing away at replying to quite a few e-mails (hence the typos - not very good at multi tasking).

Still thinking of people who do things in their own time, I watched a show on the RNLI who gave up their own time to throw themselves against the full force of the sea in a small boat to save others potentially being dashed against rocks and hard places (the side of ships to name but one). 22 Lives a day are saved from the youngest to the oldest.

Whenever we are at the seaside I always pop in to the Lifeboat Stations to buy a few bits and pieces or on cross channel ferries I always drop something into the box for the RNLI.

There are so many volunteers, Mountain Rescue, Cave Rescue (both Rocks and Hard places), and so many others who work with so little thought to cash, some getting hardly enough pay to support themselves but yet they give up their time and often risking greatly to help others.

That is a spirit those that have not yet followed should do. Let the example of the volunteer spirit guide those not yet doing so, to helping others. Even holding a door open is a start…..

Whilst sat on a tube train coming back from London after Radio Four’s interview, I saw two young mums struggle to get up the stairs with their respective youngsters and prams at Baker Street tube. Lots of people around and nobody helped, I nearly got off my train and crossed the bridge to help. Unfortunately it pulled off (before you ask why I didn’t), but thankfully one young woman helped the last lady up.

Where have all the Heroes gone, they are all around you, you just have to know where to look.

When you feel life is treating you badly, another thing that made me think my glass is half full was those living in the slums of Kenya. They have to buy water from people who had tapped into the mains supplies and you could never be sure it was clean. No loo’s, no nothing.

Next time you turn the tap, count a blessing.

Stay safe and keep your family & friends close by.

Inspiration is all around you.

Iain

P.S.

Those that are local Keran reminded me, to get the Scouts to start collecting old Computer Games, DVD’s and the old CD’s you don’t use to the Scout Hut so we can forward them to a National Charity helping young carers. I keep forgetting to ask (or if I have asked I forget that I have asked…..what was I saying…….)!

Also, don’t forget if you get a mo to leave a message for Sue Belcher, a lady who has done a lot for the Kids in the Iver Heath area amongst many other things who presently could do with a thought or two.

You can reach her at

http://suebelcher.livejournal.com/

Thank you.

Tuesday 22nd January 2008

I was thinking earlier after recent events and re-reading material from the court of a few issues we will need to raise at the end of this nightmare.

Being of Yorkshire blood with a hint of Scottish in I was wondering what the limit is on cash spending by the Prosecution? As they doubled up on ‘Experts’ who decided that was needed and I wonder who picks up the tab?

Surely if we in the Defence camp had asked the Public Purse to stump up twice as much cash for twice as many experts, they may have politely declined our approach. Or is it me?

The other issue with the payment side of things is as the Doctor mentioned on Radio 4 on Monday, she would expect to be paid if she was giving up her time, and I do know what she means as we all have bills to pay.

But someone mentioned to me when I take the Scouts away, give up a week of my leave up, how much do I get paid…….well if I told you that the Tax people would ……..have to give me money!

As a Copper I spent time at home prepping to set up the Training Unit, never got paid or indeed recognised for doing this but I was never bothered either way really. But certain jobs in the Police for example should get extra cash, especially if you link to the field of Child Protection. Officers involved in having to investigate Child Porn, well, in my book you couldn’t give them enough cash! Still wouldn’t get me doing that job.

Mind you if I was still in the Police I would probably be considering to join their march, which chatting to the chaps seems not to be about the cash but the fact they have been let down. The Prison Officers are already wound up and the Military could always do with more…and more Helicopters, Body Armour, Bullets etc.

The other thing I thought of is that a small group of experts seem to feel they are between a rock and a hard place and if they don’t do their job freely that others will suffer. Now of course NOBODY in their right mind would wish any harm to come to children. But there is a small few whose views need to be independent and not focused to whoever is paying and based on facts.

But again, how many other professionals have a SPLIT SECOND decision to make that involves a real Life & Death situation. I have been there myself in the Military. Whilst on armed duties I had occasion to point a live weapon at a group of armed intruders who were heading towards a very restricted area of national importance (NOT THE NAAFI). Do I shoot don’t I shoot. A young man, armed to the teeth I had a few moments to decide, glad I didn’t as it was a bunch of T.A. troops heading into the danger area.

Many others have to do that, much more than I ever did, so the experts are not alone with important decisions. We need to back them up to protect our children, but by God they do have to have evidence. Only a very small number have had complaints against them, they are not being witch hunted like parents and carers seem to have been as there are many of them who have been victims of injustice in whatever court system..

Even the Royal College of Paediatricians and Child Health Workers acknowledges the limited evidence base for Shaken Baby Syndrome (the Haines & Turton, Child Protection Complaints Survey) and ambiguous signs, as well as the limited number of complaints actually against ‘Experts’.

I really feel after this is over, all the agencies involved need to get together and without malice or hidden agendas must stop this happening again. We should not be afraid of dealing with those who hurt children but we need evidence, not opinions based on unproven theories. We need professional investigations and prosecutions based on the truth and nothing but the truth. Aiming for justice and protecting those that can’t protect themselves.

There is another case of SBS going on in Basildon at the moment and the experts are pretty much the same as in many other cases. (including Kerans) It will run into next month and will be followed by another case not long after, as well as an appeal at the Royal Courts on a Sudden Impact case.

It is odd some people can survive impacts at massive speeds and walk away. Jamie is a huge fan of Top Gear and whilst watching the Richard Hammond prang or even the Formula One prangs, how many die? Thankfully not many nowadays.

It reminded me that in our case they weren’t sure which way to go, either SBS and or SIDs. So again it made me wonder how the hell these things can get into the minds of the experts without proof. Do they know which syndrome or theory NO. Did they know what made Keran snao…NO because she didn’t snap. The Court of Appeal has asked these questions about background info, and yet again the points have been missed.

Let this stop.

Let Justice be done - for all

Full stop

Iain

p.s.

The boys have done thank you cards for the presents, and I keep forgetting them on the school run and at meetings, etc but I will once I get organised (say in a year or so), will get them out to those we know of.

Monday 21st January 2008

Well as most of you know there has been a movement in the case…well sort of, Keran has had to pack her case and move to another prison! Why? Well you will have to ask the Director of her last one at Bronzefield. I have left several messages on her answer phone to no avail. The boys wanted to pop in the other day to see if she would tell them why. She didn’t come out to tell them.

I didn’t think she would but the boys were really keen to find out why they have lost lots of visits (from up to 3 a week to 3 a month) to their mum and can only speak to her a lot less too (10 minutes instead of more like 20 they had been getting)! If you read about Human Rights and think they have taken over this country, you’ll be pleased to know if you are a 14 and 9 year old child… you don’t have any!

Their mum seemingly doesn’t have any either, two guards at the last prison discriminated against her and they seem to have got away with it…so far. Which is a damn shame as the rest of the staff were fantastic from our experience, doing their job often with a real human dignity and compassion.

It’s a shame that the few let down the many.

As I have said so often what goes around comes around, just more names on the list. It’s a shame but why not write to the Director at Bronzefield and ask, she may tell you why. I will be asking her a few things, such as policies regarding complaints, answering the phone etc. But just in case she forgets to reply to the post as well, then we shall be writing to her boss at the company and maybe a few others to see if they will talk.

I never was one for complaining, but nowadays in for a penny in for a pound. Still don’t like bullies but what they gonna do, lock my wife up on false charges? Oh nope they have done that! The boys have rights and what are the good of rights if you can’t use them.

Anyway Keran is settling in at her new prison, there are many good sorts by the sound of it, although we haven’t had long on the phone. I need to discover what she can have, when, etc etc.

Even though it had been a rough week I had a date with Richard & Judy. The team there are very professional, including the lawyers who asked me not to mention too much which kind of throws you a bit. But Jamie came along to see what his dad had been up to along with Suzanne. They were very welcoming and it’s incredible to think all this coverage we have had has come without us even having to make one phone call or write one letter or e-mail!

Its reassuring to know whilst the Experts, Investigators and Prosecutors don’t seem to recognise what’s what, there’s a lot of others out there that do smell a rat.

We have been busy reading through statements and its surprising what jumps out at you, some odd things and behaviours maybe missed, we had a surprise contact with someone who maybe able to really blow the case open and show there has been a dreadful miscarriage of justice…again. We await further contact and appreciate what a bold and brave move it is. But right is at stake and they hopefully realise what they have to live with if this wrong goes unchecked.

The Mail on Sunday have also put in a piece on the case (more like a shabby old despatch ‘case’ that should be despatched once and for all) and tomorrow I head for Broadcasting House, a place of so much history and a place I have passed so many times before, to take part in a Radio 4 broadcast.

Then a few other bits and pieces await, but hopefully it will ease up, unless there are many more developments from ‘outside’ (please contact us, our legal team, the Court at Reading or Crimestoppers whichever you feel is appropriate).

To the rest of you out there thank you to all for the hard work you have been doing, from ribbons to events, to letter writing to cooking, shopping and just generally being there. In adversity we have found strength, strength through friendship.

On behalf of the boys and myself, thank you for caring.

Monday 14th January 2008

This is unusual I know, but we live in unusual times, so here is another message to follow hot on the heels of the other one, not so many hours ago.

We have had another visit again and the staff were great as there was a bit of confusion over Alison & Suzanne going in. But they actually managed to break into a prison. I think they drew their inspiration from the US TV show Prison break although I just daren’t ask which one has got the prison plans tattooed all over their body.

Mind you I wanted to let them know the Scouts are still keen to dig out their old Beaver Leader. However the tunnel has been shut down by Health & Safety down to dangerous gas leaks in the tunnel. How the Scouts love their beans! So Alison and Suzanne’s plan may still be needed.

Anyway Keran was not too bad, feeling a bit boxed in at the mo but I guess that’s what happens when you’re stuck in a little room for long parts of the day. I just watched Louis Theroux on TV and he was doing a documentary about life in St Quentin prison. One guy had a 521 year prison sentence plus 11 Life sentences on top of that…….now I’m not good at maths but I don’t think he will be alive to serve that sentence. I know Life doesn’t always mean Life over here, but surely they went a bit OTT? But thank God British Prisons are a bit better than that inside. 

Some prisoners had to exercise in a small caged box, the size of a kennel compound (for one of my old Police dogs). At least Keran although boxed in, has plenty of room in her box to swing a guard dog! Not that you would want to swing an Alsatian! Trust me I have tried when it’s been hung on my arm by its teeth (it was heavily padded - not the teeth the arm). I still have a slight scar from one of the dogs, but I won in the end…it helps having a machine gun and lots of bullets, some people just keep giving you ammo. So I’ll keep firing.

It’s sad you have to remind your four legged friends you’re on the same side…..but that’s a war dog for you! They take the war literally, oh and before you ask we didn’t really shoot them! It was war games……we were only pretending! They wouldn’t really attack people on the same side, as you never bite the hand that feeds you.

Anyway back to the visit, she was doing okay and we hope to get more people in to see her. I am going to ask if they do bus tours with the numbers we need to get in. I usually just sit there and let her talk at times so I’m with Suzanne on that score! See Suzanne’s message on the front page of the site.

The boys enjoyed seeing their mum as always and are glad of more visits which go a little way to make up for the many weeks of not being allowed ANY contact with their mum (there is no Human Rights if your a kid it seems). But we are getting there, shame they can’t see her more with enhanced visiting rights.

As always folks stay safe, keep your loved ones close. Justice is coming (it could be any year now…..I can hear the cogs grinding).

Iain

Fiat Justicia

Sunday 13th January 2008

Message from Suzanne (and Alison)

Alison and I have just got back from visiting Keran.

Between the lady herself and Alison I did not get a word in edgeways so it was an interesting time, especially as we had to break into the prison! Will save that story for Iain…

Just wanted to let you all know that the person we visited today was still Keran as I had expected to see someone that looked like her but was not quite the same.

As we left, Alison said to me, “I feel like I have just been to Keran’s house for a cup of tea and a chat”. To which my reply was, “Me too!”

This horrendous experience has not crushed her spirit yet and she is still a true shining star.

Love to you all,

Suzanne (and Alison)

Sunday 13th January 2008

Its Day 60 already believe it or not that the star in our lives (mine, and the boys) was taken from us. You can stick a star behind bars and walls, but they can’t stop her shining.

Keran is now working on ideas for cards to send out for Easter, but due to a lack of creative supplies she tried recycling some of her earlier Christmas decorations which got her into trouble. Not only is it an offence to make badges and wear them in court as some of you did to show you cared, but even recycling seems to be forbidden, hence the request to send in supplies to her.

When you recycle as Keran does in large quantities, its second nature and I will recycle a saying…what goes around…comes around. he more people have thrown at us all in the last two years plus, the more we just get up and are determined to right the wrongs and change the system.

My book will be starting formally soon and there are some things that will shock some readers and others may even doubt the examples of behaviour exhibited towards us from supposedly professional people in the court etc. but I am not out to convince those that may need convincing. Those that did the deeds will know and have to live with what they did or didn’t do.

I am very much glass half full and it’s about time more of us, in our own personal battles decided enough is enough. If we allow people to always talk things down and be depressing about the state of things, I guarantee nothing will change unless you stand up and be counted.

Anyway moving on the Scouts have started back now and I was looking at ideas for making items. Looking in a book of Heraldry it said about the colour yellow, it shows understanding, respect, and virtue which made me think back to our life (and the Yellow ribbons) that we understand the double tragedies in our case. That’s why we still seek the answers to Maeve’s tragic premature death and respect that a little girl was taken from her family.

With so many strong virtues in the team to seek these answers, I think sometimes the articles you may see or read in other sources focus on the dreadful miscarriage that has affected Keran and us. Just to remind everyone; I have said so many times before I will never stop until I can find out what really caused Maeve’s death. The mottos of my old units include ‘Without Fear or Favour’ & ‘Let Justice be done’. That’s exactly what will be done.

Some who live locally may notice the star on St Margaret’s Church is starting to set and has got lower in the sky. Well, our star is bright and loved seeing all those of you in Grazia magazine at the vigil. Hopefully she will be present at one herself but maybe for others in the same boat.

Another little thing that has popped up of late is that the boys dug out the game of Cluedo….which just started me wondering if the following things happened in the thinking of the Experts, Police and Persecution… Prostitution…PROSECUTION…damn it! So close, anyway I wondered if the experts with no clues just went for dough (aka lolly, readies, cash, money), Clue-dough get it? I really need to go to bed earlier……or if the Polizia and the others just had the Homer Simpson version, No Clue..doh!

I am considering a career in advertising……there done it, considered it. Best stick with the day job!

We have a visit coming up soon which we all look forward to as its so nice to have a bit of intimacy in our lives again, but enough of the strip searching…it’s not true that I always ask to be searched twice! Vicious rumours like this and the fact it’s only me it ever happens to, must stop…I have an image….sure it’s a poor one………but it’s an image.

 

Saturday 5th January 2008 (the 12th day of Christmas)

12 Points for ‘12 Experts’ in the 12 Days of Christmas

1. If there was an assault, why no marks on Maeve? I have dealt with lots of assaults there’s always marks! According to one expert if you have them (assaults) it’s the icing on the cake - I would say two things to that, Maeve wasn’t a cake and two, you can’t have ‘your’ cake and eat it.

2. How can a petite woman carry out the assault on Maeve (who weighed 10-11kg, has stronger neck muscles and to use the experts own theory against them, victims are normally under 6 months old) for up to 10 - 20 minutes (according to some ‘experts’) and not break into a sweat?

3. Is Shaken Baby proven scientifically, err no and it has just been thrown out of the US Courts.

4. Experts disagreed with each other and that was just the prosecutions experts.

5. One expert said could have been months old the injuries, which mean they would not be down to Keran. Also that they weren’t due to Shaking (as did the main defence expert who clearly stated that the Bridging veins were still intact, plus other issues so shaking could NOT have happened).

6. Maeve’s had a history of visiting hospital (6 times - before Keran even cared for Maeve - which she was never told about). Maeve was due to see a specialist because of all the illnesses that wouldn’t clear up, but the appointment was cancelled.

7. Maeve’s family had a relative who died unexpectedly at a young age. On the stand Maeve’s Grandmother stated she was worried about Maeve before Christmas (remember Keran didn’t look after Maeve till February) the CPS dragged her off the stand as quickly as possible.…

8. Maeve had a 20 minute rigid seizure in the hospital and was pumped with all sorts of drugs and they couldn’t stop it.

9. Two of the jurors (including the foreman) have come out to say maybe things were not as they should have been using words like a ’shambles’ to describe the trial, etc.

10. There were kids present at all collapses including a 12 year old, who saw no assault (maybe because there wasn’t one to see). The Police didn’t even consider interviewing all these witnesses for months, according to Ken McDonald (head of the CPS) statements should be taken as soon as possible (BASIC Police practise really).

11. I helped revive Maeve on the second collapse…ME a Police Officer (supposedly a good witness on oath), was I called to give a statement by the Police (No I had to ask to be interviewed) or called as a witness by the CPS, NO; I was hidden in the unused material. As were all the parents of the children who Keran had looked after. Why not call people who knew her as a professional, kind and caring childminder?

12. If Keran didn’t like Maeve, she could have handed her back, of course. If she didn’t like children, why do so much with them (Childminding, Beavers, Drama, School, having her own, looking after friends kids etc etc etc) with NO history of ever hurting them or having complaints. Indeed she organised the First Aid course for the other childminders and teachers and had just passed an OFSTED inspection.

 

If that’s not enough for you well here are a couple of other things why did the prosecution pay for so many experts? As one of the jurors said, ‘they wheeled another one in, if the first didn’t quite say what they wanted’.

Would you use experts to help prove your case and pay for them, if you thought they would give evidence against your case (note, not Justice - but case)?

Another little gem, when one of the prosecution witnesses said ‘I have blown it, I want to change my statement’ as they came off the stand, (half way through their evidence). If you’re telling the truth…why want to change the ‘truth’.

One of the ‘expert’ witnesses asked the Police ‘how is our case going’, experts are meant to be independent.

The Police also were heard to say ‘we have all the experts, cos you know what juries are like with expert witnesses’.

Oh and one final thing taking a peak at the list of ‘experts’ in the Times, as a guide, look how long some of them have been doing their jobs in their field, one was 2003/4…hmmm. I have known Keran for 23-24 years…and I would have more chance of saying I am an expert. But still there’s is more to find out, for example her spirit to help others surprises even me. The other thing is that some are NOT experts, but were sold as experts; people like the Pathologist are just Pathologists (no offence).

Like I have said before, it doesn’t matter if 1200 have said it; if they have never proven it…it should count for nothing.

But the fact is it did, and is that the fault of 10 Jurors or the numerous prosecutors (number and cost unknown) so desperate to win and not get justice…….

There is a New Year coming and hopefully a wind of change. We will find out what happened to Maeve to bring closure, to clear Keran, to help others, and to put the use of expert witnesses without any supporting evidence into the waste basket of British Justice.

 

Fiat justicia

 

Tuesday 1st January 2008

Well, nearly time to resume the work we started before Christmas, don’t really want to say too much about Christmas anymore as it just didn’t seem to have the same sort of sparkle it normally has. So the New year has come, I was in bed early for New Year having turned down parties at the Beckhams L.A. pad, Roman Abramovich’s yacht in the Med, Bill Gates wanted to party like it was 1999, but I said no to all quite frankly.

I did see the Fireworks over West London, there was some truly beautiful rockets, but with a flash they were gone, reminds me of some of the revellers at Trafalgar Square I used to help Police, a Flash and they were gone (mostly cos it was too cold I reckon). The rockets lit up the sky briefly, but way above them were the stars that are nearly always there, but you can’t always see them. Which brings me to the friends are like stars saying.

I know so many of (that we don’t always see) have been thinking of us as my e-mail’s reflect it, the text messages reflect it, the amount of cards reflects it, thank you so much again. I really wasn’t up to cards this year so I do apologise. Maybe next year. Keran will be well used to writing by then! Just so you know she is still only up to early December’s mail, so if you have written and not received a reply that’s why! Still got about 78 letters to catch up with. Including a lot from people we don’t know which is very humbling for her and indeed me.

Whilst visiting friends and relatives over the Christmas period, I was reminded that the Prosecution had said in court something to the effect ‘lets see how many friends and supporters she still has when they hear the Medical side.’

Well, I am pleased to inform the Prosecution, if your still reading the site like you did during the trial, actually there are many more, friends and supporters joining in, as like us, they don’t like injustice and personally I really hate bullies, especially those that should really know better. Hey ho, what’s that saying ’you made your bed’ …….

On a more personal note, there are Brussel Sprouts out there breathing a sigh of relief, I’ll explain why. Most Christmas’s when we are all together we travel around doing the visits and at one of the petrol stations we use to top up (which also reminds me if a certain good King was to gather winter fuel he would find its nearly £1.10 a litre! But now back to the sprouts) there is a sign in one garage that says a Sprouts for life and not just Christmas…….anyway we normally have to come home with a stalk of sprouts!

This year as Mrs H wasn’t with us I have done the atmosphere a favour and not bought the dreaded sprouts! They have an effect of creating a lot of hot air that has to escape from some hole or other, but I won’t talk about certain experts expelling hot air from their orifices, as it is still, just about, the season of goodwill………

But it ends soon.

Fiat Justicia

 

December 2007

Thursday, December 6th, 2007

Friday 28th December 2007

Seasons Greetings,

Well this time of year has felt as awkward as the latest show of  ‘Extras’. That is of course how it’s meant to be at times, but for us it’s just how it’s become. Andy found out that ‘Fame and Fortune’ ain’t all its cracked up to be.

Talking of which, I signed my first autograph today for a friends daughter Chloe, at least I thought it was an autograph, it was used instead as a table setting name! Fame…….funny old game. I knew it wasn’t really an autograph….as I didn’t ask her if she wanted to her or a ‘friend’!

Well for once I am ahead of the game as I have realised that what counts is family, friends and supporters for Keran. Even when you have all got much better things to do, you have been in touch directly or through others saying that, Keran, the boys and myself are in your thoughts.

That makes you the stars you are for caring. Talking of stars that Take That song keeps popping up and whilst looking at the photos of the ‘Light of Hope’ service the lines from the song, struck me about lighting up the skies for you. I said to Keran she should have felt the warmth from their, especially as my Nylon tracksuit bottoms went up in smoke which certainly lit up the sky!

Had an interesting bundle of information turn up today which I have been reading through, could lead to developments in the case. I showed it to a colleague and we will be taking it on shortly and investigating further.

We hope to meet up with a couple of other sufferers of the same fate Keran is being put through very shortly, which hopefully will help all involved in some way. Will keep you posted.

Finally, a belated congratulations to Sarah & Matt and Will and Sophie for bringing new life into the world with a little girl and a little boy respectfully.  Congratulations to you all.

As for the rest of you cherish what you have, regards

Iain

Monday 24th December 2007

Just a quick message from all of us at carers4carers wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Remember to enjoy your time with those around you, especially your children and spare a moment to think of those with loved ones who are away for whatever reason and for those who’s loved ones are no longer with them.

Here’s to a 2008 where at least one wrong is put right…

Sunday 23rd December 2007

*****Unauthorised Carol Singers*****

For those of you living in Iver/Iver Heath, it has come to our attention that there are some teenagers in ‘hoodies’ carol singing in the villages claiming to be collecting on behalf of Keran.

We would like to point out that whilst they may be genuine, the carers4carers committee are not aware of them and therefore cannot say 100% that any money collected will go to Keran’s fund.

Saturday 22nd December 2007

Merry Christmas and Seasons best wishes to all the supporters of Keran & Carers4Carers.

We have just had the ‘Light of Hope’ service. What a moving and fantastic service that was and a huge thanks to Linda Harper and the gang that provided the refreshments that warmed us up afterwards in the hut.

Thanks also to Father Will for his prayers (Sophie and Will - haven’t had a baby yet…I don’t know who said they did)! And to Kim for leading the singing! Hopefully Sally managed to get some great photos to.

The BBC couldn’t get the helicopter in the end we did have the offer of a private helicopter but there would have been too much camera shake, what with having two turbo engines doing their bit to shake the camera and the photographer! I can hardly hold a camera straight and everyone has to have red eyes! Although a lady on a Flight 607SA inbound to Heathrow from Durban got a lovely photo of the ribbon!

We had considered calling for an Air Ambulance to use for the photo shoot, pretending we were suffering due to heat exhaustion from the candles heat, but thought better of it.

I have to apologise though as I had drunk most of the mulled wine, hence that’s why my singing was as it was and why there wasn’t any mulled wine! So apologies for that and the shinging!! Sorry that should be singing!

Isn’t it a great place to live, Iver Heath not the Rec that is, we have such a fantastic community spirit at the moment (apart from the lack of mulled wine).

Thanks also to those that travelled from across Berkshire, Bucks, Herts and down from Yorkshire, we did have someone who wanted to travel from Suffolk, but didn’t quite get enough notice.

From tots to teens to our older residents it was great to see you all, it was a shame to put the candles out, but we had complaints about the global warming, mind you at minus 2 we could have done to warm it up a bit more!

We raised a fair bit to the fighting funds apparently which is much appreciated. It remains to be seen now if those in a position of power can give the boys the best Christmas present ever, but the wheels move slowly.

I haven’t really been in the mood for writing cards or indeed had the time, as this week has been a tad busy. So apologies for that.

Since the juror came out on Radio 5, which was a shock, followed by another, on the front of the Times and then going on TV, to be joined by a expert witness from the prosecution (albeit one that goes with Science Fact and not Science Fiction aka Opinions). Then by the Angela Canning Foundation message to get Keran freed by Christmas on Bail if nothing else. Then…there’s more….the Attorney General said she will review the case, not your normal week. I struggled to keep up and keep Keran up to date as things moved so fast.

Then of course I have done interviews with, the Bucks Advertiser, The Daily Mail, Mail on Sunday, Times, Sunday Times, the Press Association , INS News Services, Grazia Magazine, The Express, at least 4 photo shoots (next year I am doing a Knit wear catalogue) and then BBC   London, GMTV and London Tonight and the ITN news. I think that’s all of them, might have missed the radio station out somewhere?

But hopefully it’s all for the good, I hope there is someone out there, be it more jurors, police officers, prosecutors, or experts. Who are now starting to realise that maybe they have been part of a tragic miscarriage of justice. They did have a choice in the trial and they have one now. Will they take it?

Happy Christmas?

Monday 17th December 2007

Christmas is coming ever so quickly; it just about seems to be on the radar for me. I would like to wish the Medical Experts, Police, CPS and the 10 Jurors a Merry Christmas, but feel even my forgiving nature can’t quite stretch to that.

But to the rest of you who stand up still thank you for being there, its now day 33 as I write this. After another visit to Keran, after what was tough week, lots of little things, that got to her but as usual she has pulled herself through it. Still missing contact with the boys and God willing she will see them before Christmas. Probably the best present in the world (and nothing to do with a famous brewery).

I know speaking to various people directly and indirectly that some of you find it hard to put your thoughts into letters. Well please don’t fret, if you tell he about the weather, events, the family, what you got for Christmas (and didn’t want), the winner of the X Factor, a movie you saw, whatever. Just write, she isn’t marking them or comparing them, she is valuing each as a piece of you. The world outside the walls.

Richard Lovelace once said

Stone walls do not  a prison make,
nor iron bars a cage,
Minds innocent and quiet take
that for a hermitage;
If I have freedom in my love,
And in my soul am free,
Angels alone that soar above
Enjoy such liberty
Do we enjoy our liberty.? To be honest I for one take it for granted (until recently anyway) I can walk when I want to, talk to who I want, when I want, go to bed when I want, be with my loved ones and friends when I want. We should all be grateful for what we have, often the simplest things we take for granted. Keran says she takes me for granted - which I think means I am simple! Hmmm…..Anyway that aside value what you have.

Whilst watching the coverage of the handover to Iraqi troops by the British, it made me think that it’s a shame there aren’t yellow ribbons for all the troops doing a tough job, with little support. It would have been nice to have Camouflage ribbons …you may spot the flaw with that plan! But never the less they deserve our thoughts too, especially coming up to Christmas, they to are often virtually locked up in their bases, behind walls and wire away from their loved ones. 

Seize the day and as Jamie says on his picture board - Be Happy!

Iain

Thursday 13th December 2007

Just a quick update to thank all of those busy working away on the various projects from the Admin and Central support, Web pages, Fundraising, Photography (still looking for my best side - the Holy Grail would be easier to find), the Investigation Teams, and all those generous people supporting the fund raising activities. Especially coming up to Christmas which is a difficult time for all of us. Trying to work out if the kids want the latest Nintendo Playboy Station X Box Wii  game PSP DS thing………or at least I think that’s what it’s called!

Even those that can only afford a pound here and there to buy a ribbon, it all counts. Please rest assured if we get to the point we actually have ’spare’ cash once all the bills are paid, it will all go to a good home as we aim to help others in the same position and other carers who need some support just surviving.

It is so ironic that ITV have a Care for Carers appeal. The boys were treated to a Panto trip to Wycombe to see Cinderella which was great fun - the only trouble is now they are starting to laugh at the humour geared at the parents, which is good ‘cos obviously I don’t know what they are talking about!

The Panto is good if you get a chance to see it. At the end though the stars of the show asked for spare cash to go in a bucket for Care for Carers, the boys looked at me as if to say, is all this for Mum to’? I know the team have been busy planning events, but I don’t think it stretched to Pantos yet! Or does it?!

All your help and support will hopefully get the justice we all would like to see again……oh yes it will. Although it’s behind you at the mo, hopefully it will be back soon. Okay I am out of Panto lines at the mo!

Stay safe

Iain

P.S. Thanks for all the cards coming in, I will get the ones to Keran if you haven’t sent them direct. Keran has had over a 150 letters and cards recently, so bear with her if she doesn’t get back to you for a while. We can have cards here with glitter on!

Friday 7th December 2007

Like some of you I have just sat and watched a report on Newsnight of a baby-sitter who allegedly slammed a child in her cares head against a bannister at 60mph.

If the reporter John Sweeney is correct and I don’t have much to doubt it at present. It looks like a miscarriage of justice has taken place even before my beloved Keran’s.

So a few years ago, you can use this force and leave no real marks on the little boy, Kyle, or indeed leave NO evidence on the bannisters. To use a term which is in some ways inappropriate, yet appropriate given what they allege, ‘you couldn’t even swing the proverbial cat’ on that landing.

Kyle seemed to have had a fit, eyes rolled back, sound familiar? It all sounds too close to home for my taste.

The Police didn’t interview witnesses..again sound like we have been here before?

Also a lovely picture of Suszanne Holdsworth on the web and in the papers, always helps, make ‘em look like killers and it all helps! I must get round to thanking Thames Valley Police for releasing an awful picture of my wife, bit busy at the mo.

Mind you when you are dragged out of your house, stripped, thrown in a cell and traumatised for hours being asked questions you have been asked before (and you answered voluntarily - even though legal team said don’t - she wanted to get answers for Maeve’s parents and had nothing to hide), in an alien environment, to the point of being ill, well who would look their best?!

They could have done a better job with sticking her in an orange suit I guess. All this to secure eveidence they said, months after the last incident, when it could have gone. Sounds like a very VERY POOR excuse. But what goes around comes around…..

There will be justice in cases like Keran’s and Suszanne’s. It is something that clearly needs to be stopped and there’s a new sheriff in town…..  I don’t have to hit government targets and get clear ups……..all i have to do is get justice.

And there’s a hell of a team of deputies gathering, if we can help others and care for those that care, I think its safe to speak for the others (I am the sheriff after all - you gotta have some perks) but we will seek justice for all. Even Kyle’s dad seems to clearly understand it could have been him, in the lottery of ‘Expert’ witnesses.

Suszanne said she would be spending Christmas in her cell crying most of the day. I hope that we can get some support to her from the Carers4carers team as I have been in touch with her legal team and hopefully we can make contact and let her know she is not alone and hope the tears this year will be her last inside.

Fiat Justicia

Wednesday 5th December 2007 PS

I have just sat and watched Prof. Southall be struck off, it makes you wonder if this had happened earlier if the Jury would have read this and thought…’hang on ….maybe they don’t know everything’?

It will be interesting to see if he appeals.

But well done to the families that suffered at his hands, why is it they (the  experts) think parents and carers are so capable of harming children over common sense? They have had to tolerate all sorts of grief over many years. Truly well done to keeping so strong for all this time!

Wednesday 5th December 2007

Another update already…I know where does the time go?

Today was day 21, that means Keran has been away from us for 3 weeks…or it means she is 3 weeks closer to coming home (you decide). We are hoping that the appeal Bank Account will be set up tomorrow, which is handy, as in the last 24 hours or so hundreds of pounds have been coming in to help find the funds for the legal costs. Its fantastic what you are getting up to, the Photo Shoot, the Handbag and shoe party tonight, the kids party this weekend etc etc. Truly superb and inspiring way beyond the norm!

Keran too also continues to inspire me with what she is getting up to, at the core, is helping others! She can’t help herself (literally) so she helps others. I may mint a medal for her. She worries about things out here of course.

I keep telling her everything is fine, today for example I learnt that microwaves explode if you don’t use them properly, and that fire blankets really do work! But its all good, now we can see the kitchen again. Surprising how even wall tiles will burn if the flames are hot enough!

The boys still do us proud and if they keep up like this I may have to let them have some of the cakes people bring round! Although they will have to fight me for the chocolate ones! I am considering doing a sponsored cake eat……I know, I know I sacrifice to much for the cause.

On a serious note now, someone complained about one set of ribbons at one certain location, saying they felt it didn’t represent the little girl that died. Well, her name was Maeve and the people with the ribbons and the entire team (in case you’re reading this) have not forgotten Maeve, and never will.

Maeve was the first tragedy in this catalogue of nightmarish events. So to get Justice for Keran we must first get justice for Maeve and find out what caused Maeve’s collapses. That’s why the Medical team and the Investigators will be concentrating their efforts there.

Never forgotten, always remembered.

Justice for all.

Fiat Justicia (no matter how long it takes)

As a P.S.

I have just sat and watched Prof. Southall be struck off, it makes you wonder if this had happened earlier if the Jury would have read this and thought…’hang on ….maybe they don’t know everything’?

It will be interesting to see if he appeals.

But well done to the families that suffered at his hands, why is it they (the  experts) think parents and carers are so capable of harming children over common sense? They have had to tolerate all sorts of grief over many years. Truly well done to keeping so strong for all this time!

Monday 3rd December 2007

Just been to see Keran again the other day, but still without the boys, can’t wait to see her together with the whole family.

Keran although still not at ‘full’ bubbly factor (it’s an idea for another show if Simon Cowell needs a new show - ask him to speak to me), but she showed a lot of her outstanding spirit, talking about helping to decorate another wing! Done one…now its anothers turn to get the Creative Keran factor (thats another show)!

She has made decorations for everyones cells, and has talked of writing letters to others who don’t get loads from you good folks! We have had offers though to write to her other inmates on the wing from as far away as New Zealand. Not sure how we can do this, the Data Protection Act gets mentioned a lot. But if we can come up with a way, we will let you know!

I am so proud of her still so caring, still there inside her is that sense of caring, her faith, and the sense of fun.

You can imprison the body, but not the spirit.

If I was an expert with a love of unproven theories, it maybe time to hibernate. Justice is coming.

Saturday 1st December 2007

It’s been a busy week here at the Carers HQ. Firstly we had the big meeting on Tuesday and thanks to all those that turned up on a cold wet night. Thanks to all those that kept us fed and watered.

The ‘bouncers’, the organisers, decorators, admin, typists, cleaners, chair stackers and removers, printers, bakers and candlestick makers (okay we haven’t done candles yet….maybe next week) and all those that just turned up to show they care!

It is amazing what you have all achieved in such a short space of time, it just shows me what any of us can be capable of, when we have to or need to. What Keran would have truly loved would have been to see all the younger members there.

This event was shown live on BBC London and thanks to them for hanging around to catch both the 6.30pm slots and the 10.30pm slot later on.

The next day we had GMTV over to do a spot of filming, thanks to those that let us use their house, you know who you are. So for those thinking, wow his house is so much bigger on the inside….it wasn’t my house (and no it’s not a TARDIS).

GMTV offered us the chance to go on the sofa, but quite frankly it wouldn’t have been fair on the nation to have me to wake up to! People would have phoned in sick, productivity would have gone down, and the nation could have lost billions! So you were spared!

Then later in the week came Radio 5 Live, with the rather interesting e-mail that a juror wasn’t happy with the medical evidence, I know the feeling. The radio car was parked up outside the HQ and it was like the inside of Maplins! Some of the Scouts would have had great fun in there!!

Then finally to close the week a chance to go on BBC 3 Counties radio drive time. Which was via the phone from home, people that listened are placing bets on who rang the landline during the interview…so please come forward! Then the winner can then claim their prize!

All the interviews really I think all that did them, Suzanne, Alison and Claire would agree that it is a quite strange thing to be doing but what surprised me speaking to them and other journalists is that some of the things I take for granted about the case, were new to them. Which worried me a tad. As not many knew Keran wasn’t alone, there were no marks indicting an assault, Maeve had a history of illness etc.

Bu hopefully the truth will out!

Anyway time is ticking on so stay safe, stay strong

Iain

November 2007

Tuesday, November 6th, 2007

Friday 30th November 2007

Keran has had direct or indirect contact helping or assisting the following groups:

All parts of the local Scout Group, running Beavers, helping at Cubs and Scouts. Including the Christmas Bazaar (of which there will not be one this year).
Royal British Legion
Local Church
Local Schools
Drama Group
Shooting Star Trust
Save the Mothers fund - Asian Earthquake
Tsunami
Floods in Northern England 2007
Children in Need
Race for life - Cancer Appeal Fund
Individuals  - Young and Old
Childminding activities and trips
And many, many others! I actually forget.

Including my now on hold plan to start a Police & Emergency Service Museum to mark the work of all Emergency workers. That can wait until justice is served. 

This is the woman they say lost her temper, I challenge the experts to run a Beaver Scout Section x2 back to back. She would be in the thick of the action laughing with the kids and joining in.

When Keran voluntarily stood down whilst the “investigation” dragged on, I took over to make sure the section didn’t close (I only thought it would be a week - I did over a year - experts not around apparently……). The first night I had to come down, I had run Cubs and Scout Sections after Beavers I had to lie down with a thumping headache!

The Beaver Scout leaders of this world deserve medals…and earplugs!

Iain

Thursday 22nd November 2007

A few big thank yous to start off with.

A huge thank you to all those who have been getting the HQ up and running, cleaning, equipping and very soon to be staffing the building. We will be advertising the address soon, and hope to get a phone/fax number set up there too. The HQ is getting a lovely sign erected so you can all find us (although mind the guard dog).

There have also been two meetings this week, the first was the fundraising meeting on Monday night which really got the ball rolling. It was so nice to see Keran’s (our) children getting involved with their friends at fund raising ideas which will start next week. So many great ideas and so much work for people coming up (thanks in advance folks). Thanks to Debbie and the team for heading it up.

The HQ was christened on Tuesday night with a core team meeting, which helped draw things in focus. Alison, Nicci, Jo, Suzanne, Lisa, Sally, Alasdair and Larry all putting in their input and all those others involved in getting the rooms ready and kitted up.

The names of celebrities who may shortly be in a position to support, household names from TV and radio are commonly dropped into conversations which is freaky. But their names all come from real VIP’s and that’s all those of you that have stood up to support such a noble cause (justice) who are busy working behind the scenes.

New volunteers to help sift through statements and take new ones etc have come on board as have fresh fundraisers, medical staff etc. We have tried to tell Keran that she has such fantastic support but its hard for us all to get our heads round it, so I feel she is in the same boat!

Our family and friends that live outside this area are so impressed with the support round here some would like to house hunt!

The boys miss their mum still though and we hope to get their first visit sorted soon. Both are doing their mum and myself proud, she can have so much faith that so many of you are looking out for us all she is truly grateful. I am pleased to say I have now learnt to use the washing machine, the boys helped….apparently you have to turn them on?! There is some other machine called a drier - not sure what that does.

Apparently Yellow ribbons are popping up all over the area and the globe, some are trying to get the most unusual location to put a ribbon! You know who you are! But can’t wait to see the photos of where they end up!! Last I heard they had made the Midlands and were heading north! Mind you some will soon be heading to the artic circle! Now that is north!

But more seriously lets hope all this work can find answers for Maeve and her parents as well as Keran soon. With all this help we are making progress. But there are so many other cases being brought to the teams attention that makes us thing we have much to do after this tragic case.

Regards to all supporters

Iain

P.S.

One final thing whilst sat outside a local shop earlier, a song cam eon the radio which I didn’t quite listen to initially, mind was elsewhere, but the lyrics eventually struck me.

They went

Step out of the ordinary, I can feel my soul ascending, what have you done today to make you feel proud’?   M People

I know a whole lot of people who can hold their heads high!

Wednesday 21st November 2007

I was reading through a weekend newspaper (a couple of weekends ago - not keeping up with the papers much at the mo) when I saw an article involving a Paediatrician called Southall, who allegedly had been involved with splitting families, and carrying out ‘Sleep Studies’ on children in his care involving noxious gases.

One family mentioned have been shunned and their child injured to the point he now has 80% disability. This Dr also was involved in pointing an accusing finger at Sally Clarks husband (which resulted in the Dr being found guilty of professional misconduct) as he based the allegation on watching a TV show if I remember correctly and worse still the Police took notice of him, as he was an expert……

It did make me think this must stop, in some places these, experts, have accused whole communities in Rochdale and Cleveland virtually on seemingly not a lot. The strange thing is I remember reading them and now looking back realise whilst not overly suspicious, something wasn’t right. But when it happens to you it really brings into focus a whole lot more. I am truly frightened how easy it is to get a wrongful conviction.

Let’s hope the sole use of experts in cases stops immediately. Write to your MP! Demand it you have the power the politicians are only there ‘cos we let them!

Tuesday 20th November 2007

To all readers of this site, at times we can all get wrapped up in things, for me obviously at the moment it’s fighting the grave injustice my wife has suffered. But of course there are others all over the world facing hardships, many times greater, another disaster hits Bangladesh, and so many individual stories of great sadness.

I would like to kick myself up the backside for missing a few people’s birthdays and things (Keran would be normally on top of them). Also I have been so meaning to write to Sue Belcher another great lady who has done so much for the Scouts and others.

She is going through the mill herself at the moment, so please take a time to visit her blog. Take time to care as you all have done so fantastically for Keran.

You inspire me to do greater things. My faith in justice for example is low, but my faith in people is so high and that is down to all of you!

 

Saturday 17th November 2007

Hi,

Apparently this winter seasons colour will be yellow!

As it’s all I seem to be seeing around the local area, God bless all those on the climbing crew who have been making the area look like…..well something that’s really yellow! What a pleasure for me to see the families faces (including Keran’s Parents and my own as well as the kids) looking at all the yellow ribbons.

The meeting last night was superb a huge HUGE thank you to all that care! You will be rewarded one day by a whinging woman saying ‘OOOOOOOOh I don’t like all the fuss’. She really won’t like all the fuss, but she deserves it after what she has been through. I have seen some of the headlines from some of the papers and to say I am disappointed that they have yet to learn the lessons from Sally Clark and Angela Cannings etc. But Thank God some journalists have smelt a rat already! And things are starting to change.

Personally I don’t want to sell papers, or become a better known expert, or get promotion… I just want justice.

I would like to correct a couple of things I have heard were in some publications/websites etc. There was no aggression to the jury in the sense of threats etc as some say, personally I recall just clapping them, and saying several names of those who have been wrongfully convicted at the time, adding Keran’s.

Some may think that very sarcastic, but when you think of the saying sarcasm is the lowest form of wit. When faced with what we have had to face, sarcasm is actually levels way above where we are, or should I say where we have been.

The jury will have to live with the wailing of my wife as the realisation she would be taken away from her children hit her. As will all those others present in the court. But I do feel for the Jury as the CPS dumped this on them and then baffled them with Medical Mumbo Jumbo for week after week. So maybe I was wrong…but then so were they.

The other thing I feel should be corrected was a quote in a Police Interview during the trial about my Police Career, I left, I didn’t have to leave. After the state of the investigation and its more recent traumatic end result, they had done me in. Plus I was sick of the treatment by my force. My skills are better placed protecting others now. The Police in this case will be dealt with shortly through official channels. But thankfully so many (Police) colleagues (from around the globe) who know Keran, know it’s untrue and support her and us form the sidelines. They realise what Justice is and not a ‘result’.

Anyway back to the meeting I know there are so many more I have met today and heard from who couldn’t make last night and we will update those that want to help as to times etc of the next meeting. Hopefully we can get you all sat down this time (or we fund raise for Alison to get more chairs) ;-)

A big thanks to Alison and Simon for letting everyone trash their house, but also from me a big thanks to Kieron and Haydon for their support and ideas!

The kids of the area have been busy too setting up their own blogs and getting busy with the ribbons!  There were so many good ideas coming out of last night and teams to generate funds, researching various avenues, campaign issues etc.

We will also be looking to investigate the case a fresh, using ex Police Officers to review statements, take new ones (as people have come forward recently), carry out other Police style methods, interviews, surveillance etc. 

So watch this space for Justice its coming back to a village, town and country near you soon! 

P.S.

To quote one of the Police Officers in the case on seeing all Keran’s Supporters, Friends, Family etc. ‘oooh the Circus is in town’.

Yep it is……

And it’s staying!

 

Friday 16th November 2007

A staggering 45 people crammed into Alison’s front room last night for the first meeting of the campaign group fighting to free Keran. More details to follow shortly, but it was a great success. If you wish to attend the next meeting, please email your details (eg who you are!) to meetings@carers4carers.co.uk and we’ll let you know where and when in due course.

Monday 12th November 2007

The jury were out all day considering their verdict but had not reached a decision by the end of the day so were sent home.

They will be returning on Tuesday to continue their deliberations.

Sunday 11th November 2007 (further update)

After having attended todays Remembrance Service, always well attended and packed to the rafters. A verse caught my eye and hit home a few times.

Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them saying;
“Blessed are the poor inspirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven”.
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted”.
“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth”.
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisified”.
“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy”.
“Blessed are the pure of heart, for they shall see God”.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God”.
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven”.
“Blessed are you when men revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on  my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so men persecuted the prophets who were before you”.

Sunday 11th November 2007

Apologies to the regular readers (and the new ones too) but some of our items have to be removed off the site until the end of the trial at the request of the prosecution. I have to confess to finding it all a little bizarre as one of the items especially was mentioned in open court (where anyone including anyone from the press can sit in).

The WEIRD thing is now you can find the ‘censored’ item on a press website that I had nothing to do with! iF YOU LOOK HARD ENOUGH - I will not tell you were in case they send me to a Labour Camp. I thought whilst in the Armed Services I was defending a democracy - I think what has happened I must have had a bad day with my map reading skills and instead of returning to the UK I actually ended up in East Germany (GDR).

Where you can’t say things said in open court (aka Free Speech) the land is covered with Cameras (the crime levels really have fallen don’t you think). Last night I observed a group of youths smash a window on the Village Hall about a foot away from the window is a camera - will they get caught? I tried ringing the Police Non Emergency number and gave up, it rang and rang. I will get a message to them but the camera will show nothing.

They still talk about issuing us all with ID Cards, that’ll stop the terrorists, if this ID card thing is so good why didn’t we use them to break the IRA etc? Hmmm……. Anyway didn’t the POW’s in Colditz etc always seem to make up fake papers and cards (uniforms and planes/gliders come to that) - where there is a will there’s a way.

Anyway now I know I live in a country where Innocent till proven guilty is gone, free speech gone, nanny state rules (with a big stick - they ate the carrot themselves), I can’t focus on an update without having to worry that we are being watched (and read) by the Prosecution (as we obviously know they like to suss out the site - maybe they are looking for their case?).

The Jury went out on Friday and stayed out 5hrs and 50mins without reaching a verdict so far. The tension is immense and no doubt the parents feel the same. As the judge said there stakes are high.

I still believe the tragedy is not one but two fold, anyone who is a parent and many that aren’t, will be able to empathise with the parents over the loss of their daughter. But also the other horror of being accused of this offence is something many could not imagine. Which is worse? I am not even going to attempt to answer that.

I feel some anger though as I wonder if the parents have been made aware of the lack of Scientific research backing up the experts and the rather extensive use of ‘a lot’ of experts. Someone said rather than one Professor Roy Meadows they have used twelve!

Why?

Well I have a great quote from one of the Prosecution Team which I will share with you another day - I daren’t print it now, as the 1984 Big Brother Team (not a TV Show) will swoop in and remove it! WON’T YOU…Not long though and all will be out in the public domain, the dirty tricks, Guantanamo Bay stuff and cheap stuff they have used will be exposed and dealt with.

I really find it hard to believe some people would stoop so low. I am not ashamed of the British Police and Justice system wholly as I know so many in it, but I know who would never lower themselves to these levels.

Having got messages from alot of you about you coming along to be there this coming week, all I would say is there is not alot of space in the public gallery so we may have to watch numbers in there each day. But as the judge said on Friday I would ask anyone attending when a verdict is finally given to act with respect and dignity. Whichever way it goes. As all the wrongs can be righted later and as mentioned earlier the Parents have suffered a huge loss and that should always be remembered.

Stay safe and pray that justice will be done.

Fiat Justicia

Friday 9th November 2007

The judge finished his summing up today and the jury retired to consider their verdict.

They spent the rest of the day in discussion and were finally sent home at 4.30pm without coming to a decision.

They will be returning on Monday morning to continue their deliberations.

Wednesday 7th November 2007

Update 5-11-07

I had to sit down today and listen to the closing speeches from the Prosecution………….Boy did they go on and on. Poor Jury. Not sure if she was trying to convince them or themselves had to say things twice at least twice if not thrice!

I am so glad I didn’t have to listen to all these people for the last month and more! I am not a medical expert but I reckon it could have made your ears bleed!

There is so much that came out of today, so much that I won’t even attempt to enter it all, I will save it for the Journal. Interesting comments attacking an expert they didn’t get (as he was away on holiday) but they had asked him…..two faced or bare faced? You decide.

Also did a bit of slating of Character witnesses in an oh so subtle way….had to rush at this point, the sun was going down. Some of them they had talked about calling themselves.

As God is my witness never have I been so disappointed in the ’system’.

But still standing and nearly our turn….

Fiat Justicia

Monday 5th November 2007

In some ways I hope that there won’t be too many of these in the future. I am not sure what I will have to do in the evenings……..answers on a postcard….actually don’t! It’s a family website.

Possibly by the end of next week this whole nightmare could be over (If not maybe the week after). So maybe there won’t be a need to keep you up to date on our case. However I was reading through a weekend newspaper and Keran had directed me to an article involving a Paediatrician called Southall. who allegedly had been involved with splitting families, and carrying out ‘Sleep Studies’ on children in his care involving noxious gases.

One family mentioned have been shunned and their child injured to the point he now has 80% disability. This Dr also was involved in pointing an accusing finger at Sally Clarks husband (which resulted in the Dr being found guilty of professional misconduct) as he based the allegation on watching a TV show if I remember correctly and worse still the Police took notice of him, as he was an expert……

It did make me think this must stop, in some places these, experts, have accused whole communities in Cleveland (and other places) on seemingly not a lot. The strange thing is I remember reading them and now looking back realise whilst not overly suspicious, something wasn’t right. But when it happens to you it really brings into focus a whole lot more.

As mentioned earlier, this week will be about closing speeches mainly and the jury going out. A lot of you are hoping to be there even at this late stage and my thanks go out to those that have been and those that are still to come along. To those that can’t make it, don’t worry, more and more people have been talking me into printing my journal so you can feel as you are there right down to all the times of people coming and going.

My intention is more for the family to see what went on when they are old enough. Although there may be some use for other people who may go through this after us (hopefully not too many). Thankfully we have witnesses to some of the things that have happened as otherwise people will thing some of the behaviour is that of fiction. Sadly not. 

More of that another day though.

The bit missing from the website the other week was the fact an American Pathologist had offered to come over and give his views, he believes I think it is 8 out of 10 cases of ‘Shaken Baby Syndrome’ are not SBS. Unfortunately he wasn’t allowed to give evidence on all the 3 parts of the SBS Triad.

We also would like to thank all of you who wrote Character References that we didn’t get to use. It would have taken a while to read through them all or call you in from all over the place. The CPS only used 12 experts (I wonder what that cost and why they had to use so many - I actually know the second answer) and we didn’t want to give them a complex by using many more witnesses!

I have started to compile a list of the rights and wrongs of this fiasco…not many rights at the moment (in more ways than one) and plenty of wrongs. So let’s hope once they are aired somebody may do something to change them.

It’s that time to sign off, I wish you all a good week and if you can just take a moment to spare Keran a thought at this time.

As always - Fiat Justicia

 

Friday 2nd November 2007

Another week nearly done and all the evidence has now been heard.

A bit of time with legal discussions then it should be Monday and Wednesday (Nothing on Tuesday) Closing Speeches then the Thursday should be the judges closing speech (all this is a rough guide).

A huge thanks to all those that took the stand. You literally did just that, you stood for what you believed in and that is Keran and Justice.

There was so much I wanted to say on the stand so it was down on record, but it can wait, as there are many more ways than one to skin a cat.

I know a lot of you have expressed a desire to be there in the final days (Mon/Weds/Thurs) as always you will be warmly welcomed……..for those that have been before you won’t find me outside the court 5 anymore although you may still see my arse cheek marks imprinted in the chair.

Some people get park benches named after them, me I am going to have a court room chair. We should all leave a mark on the world, I had hoped for more than arse cheek marks on a chair. Hey ho can’t have it all!

Keran is hanging on in there; the days are very draining, for all concerned no doubt. Maeve’s parents have had to endure the 5 weeks (plus more to come) and all the attention.

I have a feeling it has been said before but there really will be no winners in this case, the parents lost a daughter, which has to be the biggest loss any of us can face.

The rest of us have lost too, including the Police, CPS, NCMA, OFSTED etc in so many different ways.

The Prosecutors may place their faith in their case (which has more holes than a Grimsby Fishing Net in my opinion) with their 12 Experts………me I trust a Jury of 12 more! Let’s hope the faith is shown soon and Justice is finally done.

God bless to you all, hope to see you soon