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A face and
name has been put to New Zealand's only known victim of the London
bombings which have claimed more than 52 lives.
Twenty-six-year-old Shelley Marie Mather had been working and
living in the city for three years is thought to have been
travelling on the Picadilly line when the explosions occured.
New
Zealand's High Commissioner in London Jonathon Hunt released
details on the family's behalf.
"Shelley was a beautiful and vibrant girl who was truly loving,
caring and giving," says Hunt.
John Mather and Kathryn Gilkison, came to London to help find their daughter, now they are preparing to hold a memorial service.
"John and Kathryn feel deeply for Shelley's London flatmates and friends and the others who knew her and who are sharing the indescribable grief . They also wish to extend their heartfelt sympathy to other families who have been devastated by the bombings," says Hunt.
Shelley Mather's family went on to thank those who helped them during their days in London, including friends and family, commission staff, and the metropolitan police.
They also had a special message for a stranger. A card was left at Russell Square for the Mather family. It read in part "to the mother looking for her daughter, my tears are for you, I wish you strength whatever you find here... arohanui" - it was signed Anna. The Mather's want Anna to know her card was found.
There will be a London memorial service for Shelley Mather next week at the same church where bomb victims were comforted and treated afte the blasts.
A condolecence book is being set up at the New Zealand High Commission and a second service will be also held in New Zealand.
But the Mather's say their focus now is bringing their daughter home.
