Sister of pregnant teacher murdered in Glasgow raises money in her memory

The sister of murdered primary school teacher Marelle Sturrock has raised thousands of pounds in her memory a year after she was killed by her fiance.

The 35-year-old was 29 weeks pregnant when David Yates, 36, bludgeoned her to death with a hammer at her home last April. Her unborn son, Jayden, did not survive.

Police immediately launched a manhunt for Yates, whose body was found two days later at Mugdock Country Park in Milngavie. His death was not treated as suspicious, the Record reports.

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Investigators believe the murder was premeditated after Yates left the couple’s beloved Labrador at his mother’s house the night before Marelle’s death.

Her sister Sarah Sturrock has already raised more than £4,000 for a Labrador rescue charity in a touching tribute to her sister.

She walked the North Coast 500 over 52 days, completing the walk on the anniversary of Marelle’s death.

She shared: “I’m raising money for Labrador Rescue Scotland in memory of my little sister who was tragically taken from us on April 23, 2023, whilst pregnant with her first child.

“I had given myself 52 days to do the North Coast 500, which takes me up to a year since she was found.

“It’s a virtual challenge, so let’s hope the weather is kind to me and my four-legged friends.”

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Marelle moved from Wick to Glasgow at the age of 17 to pursue a career in the performing arts. She later trained as a teacher and was working at Sandwood Primary School in Glasgow.

The mom-to-be was pictured enjoying dinner with friends just hours before she was found dead at home.

Her colleagues raised concerns about her safety when she failed to show up for work the next day. Police later discovered her body inside her home.

Her parents, Colin and Lorna Sturrock, have paid tribute to their daughter and unborn grandson Jayden following last year’s tragedy.

They said: “We are devastated after the death of our daughter, Marelle, and future grandson, Jayden Sturrock. Marelle was the happiest person you could ever meet and was always looking to help others in any way she could.

“Marelle and her partner adored each other, and this incident came as a complete shock to everyone who knew her.

“We would like to thank family and friends, colleagues at Sandwood Primary School and police officers, both in the Highlands and Glasgow, for their efforts and heartwarming support following our tragic event.”