THE mum of schoolgirl Minnie Merriman has said she will be “eternally connected” to her daughter in a touching tribute.

Minnie, 9, was allegedly murdered by her dad Christopher Rice, 35, during a seaside holiday in Arbroath on Monday morning.

The schoolgirl, from West Yorkshire, tragically died at Dundee‘s Ninewells Hospital after being found fatally hurt at the Elliot Industrial Estate in the town where the family were camping.

Her death has sparked an outpouring of grief from the local community with scores of floral tributes being left at the scene.

Fresh tributes from relatives have since been left – including one from Minnie’s mum, Laurie Eve Merriman.

Flowers and toys were left alongside notes where Minnie was found seriously injured.

Items left at the scene included a plush strawberry, a Hello Kitty toy and a sketchbook.

A note from her mum read: “To my darling Minnie Moo.

“Wherever you are, we’re still connected eternally.

“I love you my girl.

“Mammy will carry your strength always.”

Another read: “To Min Min, I love you baby.”

And a third note said: “My hero, Minnie Moo.”

Minnie’s mum added another tribute to her daughter on social media, saying: “You have always and will continue being my strength, we are connected eternally, I have never felt a love so deep and a connection so strong.

“My first true love , my twin, I am connected to you in life and in death and my girl that cannot be broken.

“I will fight to stay strong for your little brothers, I will hold my head high knowing you will always be holding my hand for the rest of my life.

“I will see you again that I know for sure. I love you eternally.”

Minnie’s Dad Christopher Rice appeared in the dock at Forfar Sheriff Court charged with her murder.

He made no plea to the single charge when he was in the dock yesterday.

Rice was remanded in custody and is due to appear in court again next week.

We told how three other people – whose ages are not known – were taken to hospital on Monday.

Rice was taken to the same hospital separately but was later taken into custody before being charged.

Minnie’s family previously released a statement through police.

They said: “We are devastated with the loss of our beloved, absolutely incredible, beautiful and brave Minnie Moo.

“Our family asks that our privacy is respected at this extremely difficult time.”

Detective Inspector Mike Ness of the Major Investigation Team said: “Our thoughts remain with everyone affected by these events, especially Minnie’s family.

“A police presence will remain in the area while our enquiries continue.

“Anyone with any concerns, or information, should approach these officers or contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 0008 of Monday, 3 August 2026.”