Families of South Shields couple who died in Manchester bombing set to mark Pink and Blue Day

Chloe, 17 and Liam, 19, were among the 22 people who tragically lost their lives in the devastating bomb attack at Manchester Arena on May 22, 2017.

Each year, on the anniversary of the atrocity, they are remembered on what has become known as Pink and Blue Day, which sees South Tyneside unite in wearing the colours linked with the couple.

This year, nearly 300 businesses across the borough have pledged their support ahead of Saturday, with many donating to the Chloe and Liam Together Forever Trust – a charity set up by Chloe’s parents, Lisa and Mark Rutherford, and Liam’s mum, Caroline Curry.

Speaking on behalf of both families, Chloe’s mum, Lisa Rutherford said: “We are overwhelmed at the amount of people and businesses getting involved, especially during such a difficult time for everyone with the Covid 19 pandemic, for this fourth year anniversary.

"We are so proud of the love and support shown to our amazing children Chloe and Liam.

“We thank everyone from the bottom of our hearts for keeping the kids in their hearts and helping us continue to create a legacy.”

The event hopes to raise thousands of pounds for the Chloe and Liam Together Forever Trust, which grants bursaries to help aspiring young performers and sportspeople on their way to fulfilling their potential.

In the run up to the event, Chloe’s uncle, Glenn Rowe has completed a 1,000 mile walking challenge which has raised more than £1,000 for the charity.

Lisa said the families were ‘so proud of him,’ adding: "We would like to thank Glenn for all his hard work and drive to make sure Pink and Blue Day is a huge success, but, most importantly, making sure that they are never forgotten and raising funds to help create dreams and aspirations for so many others.

“Thank you to everyone who is doing their own individual fundraising to help raise the total for Pink and Blue Day, we are so very grateful.”

Glenn said: “We have Pink and Blue Day every year but I have never physically done anything for it.

"So I thought if I go out and do something it shows everybody that anybody can get involved."

As a result of the coronavirus pandemic all of the charity’s events have been cancelled since March 2020.

But as restrictions looks set to be eased further in June, subject to a Government review, the trust hopes they will be able to go ahead this summer.

Among events they hope will proceed as planned are a fundraising golf day at South Shields Golf Club on Friday, July 23 and a football day at Harton & Westoe Miners Welfare, on Sunday, August 29.

Details on how to show your support and donate can be found on the Chloe and Liam Together Forever Trust Facebook page.

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