A new hotline aimed at gathering information to catch the prime suspect in the murder of British teacher, Lindsay Hawker is now online thanks to the Lucie Blackman Trust.

Using internet based technology, communications expert, Matt Searle, has established the new phone link that will record any public tip offs in Tokyo, and then deliver them via email to the trust’s headquarters on the Isle of Wight in a few seconds.

The Hawker family have been in contact with the Trust since Lindsay died last year. Her dad, Bill, and Lucie Blackman’s dad, Tim shares a common bond because of the tragic events that have shaped their lives.

When Lucie Blackman vanished in Tokyo eight years ago it was a hotline the family set up that led police to her body, and the main suspect in her murder.

Four years ago the main suspect in the murder of Hannah Foster, who was from Southampton, was traced in India after her family were advised by the Lucie Blackman Trust to set up a hotline.

Tim Blackman says : “I don’t think it matters where you live in the world, we all love our children, and that global emotion means people can relate to the pain surrounding a child’s death, and will want to help.”

The Hawker’s request for help comes ahead of a new project called ‘Missing Abroad” which is being set up by the Lucie Blackman Trust. The project aims to help families who find themselves in the most unthinkable of situations. When someone is missing or murdered a long way from home there is little practical help available to the family. Utilising real life experiences, Missing Abroad aims to fill this gap.

For further information  and interview requests please contact Matt Searle on 0207 047 5060

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