Neil Jackson, the son of a victim of the Yorkshire Ripper, visited his mother’s grave on the 50th anniversary of her murder and expressed his belief that all of the Yorkshire Ripper’s estate should have been allocated to the victims. Emily Jackson, Neil’s mother, was the second victim of Peter Sutcliffe, brutally attacked in Leeds in 1979. Neil, now 67 years old, shared his ongoing anguish over the tragic loss, maintaining a connection with his mother through daily conversations and surrounding himself with her pictures.
During his recent visit to his mother’s unmarked grave in Leeds’ Cottingley cemetery, Neil reiterated his stance that any money left by Sutcliffe should have been directed to the victims. Sutcliffe’s property in Bradford, valued at £300,000, remained empty for years while he served time for his heinous crimes against women. Sonia, Sutcliffe’s ex-wife, inherited the property following his death from Covid in 2020.
Neil, a grandfather, reminisced at his mother’s grave, expressing his desire to be buried near her to reunite in death. He described the profound impact of losing his mother, emphasizing her importance in their family’s life. Sutcliffe’s murderous spree, which claimed multiple lives, shattered Neil’s family in 1976 when his mother was brutally killed.
Reflecting on the tragic incident, Neil recounted the harrowing experience of identifying his mother’s body as a teenager, after she fell victim to Sutcliffe’s violence. Despite the passing years, Neil continues to visit his mother’s grave, particularly on the anniversary of her death, to pay his respects and honor her memory.
Neil’s friend, Dr. Jane Carter Woodrow, who co-authored a book with him called ‘After Evil,’ joined him at the cemetery, highlighting the profound impact of the tragedy on Neil’s family. Neil’s dedication to preserving his mother’s memory is evident in his efforts to provide her with a headstone after years of neglect.
As Neil prepares for a memorial tribute to his mother, he strives to uphold her legacy and the bond they shared. Despite the enduring pain of his loss, Neil remains committed to honoring his mother’s memory and ensuring she receives the respect she deserves.