THE PROUD dad of Violet-Grace Youens has thanked the former Detective Chief Inspector who helped get her justice - and who has helped raise more than £21,000 in her name.
Violet-Grace Youens died aged four after she was hit by a stolen, speeding car on Prescot Road in March 2017.
Before she died, NHS staff at both Whiston Hospital and Alder Hey Children’s Hospital did their best to save her life.
Violet's family has supported them ever since setting up the charity Violet-Grace’s Gift to help hospitals and raise awareness of organ donation.
As part of the investigation, former DCI Chris Sephton was a crucial part of the investigation into the two men who caused Violet’s death, and kept in touch with the family.
Most recently the now retired policeman was named captain of Grange Park Golf Club for the 2023/2024 year and during his year in the role, vowed to raise as much as possible for Violet-Grace’s Gift.
Alongside other members, Chris and the rest of the club in a year have helped raise £21,360 for the charity.
Dad-of-three Glenn Youens, said: “We may have been let down by CPS but the police – and particularly Chris – have supported us from the start and helped get those responsible.
“Chris led a dedicated team of about 20 officers, working tirelessly to ensure Violet’s killers were caught. Without Chris and his team's unwavering commitment, Violet’s killers might never have been caught.
“For Chris to then choose years later to Violet’s charity to support means so much to us. To us we lost our daughter, but to others she lives on in the charity and it has helped us deal with our grief to know she is helping others.
“I’ve even been given the honour of talking at a golf charity day there, and as a man crying and sharing his story with other men was really powerful. More men should share how they feel and I felt really supported there.
“To say we are overwhelmed by this is too simple really. We owe Chris so much and it means everything that he’s fought to get Violet justice then helped us to continue her legacy.
“This money goes to help the hospitals and other bereaved families, and it will make such a difference.”
The money was raised throughout the year via weekly football card sales in the clubhouse, golf clothing sales, raffles, social events, a silent auction, and even fines for golfers who landed in a particular bunker.
Collection boxes were also placed on the bar and in the pro shop, and members gave generously.
To follow Violet-Grace’s Gift, go to facebook.com/violetgrace.gift
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