FOR seven years, the death of schoolgirl Lizzie Gilmour has remained a tragedy and a mystery. The 15-year-old was run over by a car on the A1237 about a mile from her Acomb home on January 15, 2000.

Seven years on, Lizzie's heartbroken mum, Rose Gilmour, is no nearer to answering the questions which torment her.

Evidence showed the car driver, Stephen Gibbons, was not to blame. He had not been speeding and could not have avoided the collision.

But despite a police investigation, no one has been able to explain what Lizzie was doing on that road between 6.30pm and 8.20pm that evening.

York coroner Donald Coverdale recorded an open verdict because there were so many unanswered questions.

Today, Mrs Gilmour issued a heart-rending plea for anybody who might know the truth to come forward. Not knowing what happened, she said, was unbearable. Seven years is long enough for such anguish to continue.

Mr Coverdale said if fresh evidence came to light, he would consider applying to reopen the inquest. Police said they would also look at any new information.

If anyone does have answers, for the sake of this grieving mother we would urge them to speak up now.