Rikki Neave murder verdict – Family pay tribute to 'Best boy in the world'
The family of murdered schoolboy Rikki Neave (Harvey) have paid tribute to the cheeky six-year-old after a jury found he was killed by James Watson in 1994.
Family statement from Rikki’s aunties – Sandra Chestney and Alison Harvey (Rikki’s late father’s sisters):
On behalf of Rikki Lee Harvey's father Trevor, sister Rebecca and extended paternal family: “We would like to sincerely thank everyone involved who have worked tirelessly, patiently and with commitment to ensure the conviction of James Watson for the murder of our Rikki.
“This is a day we feared would never come, 27 years is a long time to grieve without closure. Taking its toll on the whole family then and now.
“Sadly, Rikki's dad Trevor passed away not knowing what happened to his 'Best Boy in the World', now they can finally both be at peace together.”
Read more: The tragic life and death of Rikki Neave
Statement from Rebecca Harvey (Rikki’s sister – daughter of Ruth Neave and Trevor Harvey):
“You have all known Rikki as Rikki Neave - I’d like to address Rikki by his correct name - Rikki Lee Harvey. Sadly, Rikki’s dad and my dad, Trevor, is no longer with us to see his son’s justice. But I’d like to say. Nothing will bring Rikki back, but Rikki has finally received some justice today and we are all relieved. Although this day is a painful reminder of the loss we have all suffered, justice has finally been served.
“It’s the outcome we wanted. The defendant has been convicted, finally.
“We are grateful for this case being heard again, considering the complexities through to the end and we would like to thank the jury and, the majority of the police, who never gave up in the new investigation.
“Our Rikki - your beautiful blue eyes and cheeky smile will never be forgotten, and you will always be by our side.
“Rikki Lee Harvey - the best boy in the world.”
Read more: How Weetabix held vital clue to Rikki Neave case
Family statement from Rochelle and Shelley Neave (Rikki’s younger sisters):
“We as a family praise the guilty verdict now that Rikki has got his justice he deserves after so many years. He can now rest in peace, and we have closure.
“We are glad nobody else’s family has to suffer at the hands of his killer and the streets will also be safer for our communities. It will never take the pain away from what Rikki suffered but justice has been rightly served. We love you so much Rikki sleep tight little man you will always be in our hearts and never forgotten.”
