Sheffield Shiregreen deaths: Vigil for teenage boys

  • Published
Sarah Barrass and Brandon MachinImage source, Facebook
Image caption,
Sarah Barrass and Brandon Machin are charged with the murder of the two boys

A church vigil has been held for two teenage boys allegedly murdered by their mother in Sheffield.

Blake Barrass, 14, and Tristen Barrass, 13, were found in the Shiregreen area of the city on 24 May.

Their mother, 34-year-old Sarah Barrass, and Brandon Machin, 38, have been charged with murder.

The Rev David Dean-Revill, from St James and St Christopher's Church, said the community of Shiregreen had been affected by what had happened.

He said: "Shiregreen is a friendly and resilient community that has been shaken by this tragic event.

"Today many people are mourning and showing their respect, love and care for the very sad loss of two very young lives.

"We will continue to pray for the family and all those affected by this tragic event."

Image caption,
The vigil was held at St James and St Christopher's Church

Dozens of people joined the vigil at the church on Bellhouse Road, where candles were lit for the boys.

Dawn Johnson, whose children played with Blake and Tristen, said: "They were just absolutely lovely, full of life.

"I'm here to join everyone else and remember the boys and to help the children come to terms with what has happened."

Image caption,
People brought floral tributes and balloons

Ms Barrass has also been charged with three counts of attempted murder against two other children.

Both she and Mr Machin have been remanded in custody to appear at Sheffield Crown Court on 21 June.

Sheffield City Council has confirmed that a serious case review is to be held into the boys' deaths.

Follow BBC Yorkshire on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Send your story ideas to yorkslincs.news@bbc.co.uk