Three years later, nothing has changed since Holly's death

A sapling grown from the famous Sycamore Gap tree is being planted to commemorate a 15-year-old girl who was tragically killed by her ex-boyfriend. Nearly three years after Holly Newton's death, her mother, Micala Trussler, says little has changed in the fight against violence toward women and girls.

Instead of celebrating her birthday with friends and family, Hollys loved ones will gather at the cemetery where she is buried to witness the planting of the tree in her memory. Holly was lured into an alleyway in central Hexham, Northumberland, in January 2023 by her 16-year-old ex-boyfriend, Logan MacPhail. He attacked her with a knife more than 30 times after she ended their relationship. Holly was taken to the hospital but was pronounced dead. MacPhail was later sentenced to prison for her murder.

The tree being planted is one of 49 Trees of Hope, grown from seeds collected after the Sycamore Gap tree was illegally cut down in September 2023. Were overwhelmed but grateful that Holly is being remembered in such a meaningful way, Micala said. She described the Trees of Hope project as symbolic of her work to help other young people and prevent similar tragedies.

Of course, our greatest wish is to have Holly back with us, Micala added. We miss her dearly; she brought immense joy, laughter, and happiness to our lives. Almost three years have passed, and nothing has changed.

Currently, anyone under 16 is not legally recognized as a victim of domestic abuse, limiting access to support and intervention. Micala and her husband Lee highlight that this prevents young people from learning how to recognize unhealthy relationships like the one Holly endured, and makes it more difficult for authorities and charities to intervene.

Hollys death was classified as knife crime, and no domestic homicide review was conducted, leaving unanswered questions for the family. The government claims to be addressing violence against women and girls, but little has been done to meet these targets, Micala said.

After MacPhails conviction, Micala and Lee began campaigning to lower the age threshold for access to support in abusive relationships. They have also been visiting schools to educate students about the signs of unhealthy relationships. Holly had not recognized the controlling nature of her ex-boyfriend, who restricted her friendships, constantly monitored her, and threatened self-harm if she ended the relationship.

In the days leading up to her death, MacPhail stalked Holly, showing up at her home at night and following her through Hexham on the day she was killed. Former Home Secretary Yvette Cooper told the BBC that the government would examine the issue and improve criminal justice responses to domestic abuse.

A Home Office spokesperson said: This was a horrific murder, and our thoughts remain with Hollys family. Abuse in teenage relationships can have devastating consequences. Work is underway to explore every option to tackle teenage relationship abuse, including legal reviews, prevention initiatives, and victim support.

Micala and Lee continue to advocate for Hollys Law, seeking formal recognition for under-16s as victims of domestic abuse and improved education on relationship safety. We want urgent action to protect children and provide them the awareness and support they need, Micala said.

Author: Sophia Brooks