Family finally receive Government help five years after mother’s death in Crete

Three brothers whose mum was found dead in Crete more than five years ago are finally receiving assistance from the UK Government.

Officials have promised to write to Greek officials after it was discovered the police have closed the case into the death of Jean Hanlon from Dumfries.

Her sons, Michael, David and Robert Porter, have devoted their lives to investigating their mum’s death since she was pulled from a harbour in March 2009.

But it’s only in the past 10 days, since Michael took part in a protest against the Foreign Office with other families who have lost loved ones overseas, that the Government finally offered help.

Now Michael, 29, is hopeful of a new investigation being launched into his mum’s passing.

“Our lawyer over there has been in touch with the port police, who were investigating, and they’ve said the case is closed.

“They said they believed the death was foul play, but they didn’t follow up a number of leads.

“When I told the FCO the case was being closed, they said a letter would be drafted on behalf of the Government stating there is enough evidence that shows my mum was put in the water.”

Michael added: “We haven’t been able to grieve as we’ve had to investigate Mum’s death ourselves. She looked out for my brothers and me, so it’s only right we do the same for her.”