Eilidh MacLeod was the daughter of Marion and Roddy MacLeod and the sister of Shona and Laura.78 She was 14 years old at the time of her death on 22nd May 2017.79
Eilidh was a happy girl with a great sense of fun and humour.80 She was a much‑loved middle sister and very family orientated.81 I heard how close she was to her sisters, with whom she shared so much laughter.82 She was a “shining light” in her family’s life.83
Eilidh was popular at school.84 As her mum Marion said, “It wasn’t hard to love Eilidh. She loved everything about her life.”85 Her friends remember her beautiful personality and how she made them laugh with her sense of humour and infectious laugh.86 Eilidh enriched the lives of many.87
Eilidh loved music, which was an enormous part of her life.88 She was a talented bagpipe player.89 I heard how proud her family were when she enjoyed success at the World Pipe Band Championships in August 2016.90 I have no doubt that Eilidh would have achieved anything she set her mind to.91 As her mother said, “The world was her oyster.”92
Events of 22nd May 2017
Eilidh was extremely excited that her countdown to the concert was finally over.93 She and her mother travelled from Scotland to Manchester. They stayed in a hotel the night before the concert.94
Earlier that day, they enjoyed a trip to the Trafford Centre to spend quality time with Eilidh’s godmother.95 The group had a lovely time together, enjoying lunch and shopping, while Eilidh talked about the concert excitedly.96 Marion dropped Eilidh and her friend off at the Arena.97 When she was seated, Eilidh made a video call to her mum. Marion recalls how happy Eilidh was.98
Eilidh and her friend entered the City Room at 22:30:49.99