The Diane Watson playground murder: Trauma, loss and a love that endured

As we spoke, beside her on the sofa was her husband, Andy Thomson.

It took me a moment to take it in when they told me that Andy had been Alan’s best friend.

That through all the tragedy and trauma, this couple found solace in each other and they’ve been married for 34 years.

Their little grandson is the light of their lives.

“We were kids and I got what she was going through because I was so close to Alan,” says Andy.

“And then obviously when Alan passed away, it just drew the two of us even closer.

“And we’re 34 years together, we’re still going strong and always have been. And always will be.”

“No one gives you a book on how to cope with trauma when you’re a teenager,” Pauline says.

“We were left to cope, and we helped each other. Our life hasn’t been all trauma – not at all. But it has been a part of it.

“The most important thing for us was we wanted to talk about Diane and Alan, not just the names in the newspapers.

“For people to have a better understanding of them as kids – because that’s what they were, they were kids. Just normal teenagers who should still be here.”

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this story, information and support can be found at the BBC’s Action Line website.