'This is the first public statement we have made regarding the tragic events of Wednesday 30th May, and we would like to use this opportunity to provide an update on Rachel's condition and express our thanks to so many people for their support.

'A week ago Rachel suffered serious injuries to her left leg and foot, fractured her pelvis and sustained a head injury. On Tuesday 5th June Rachel's leg was amputated below the knee at St. John's Hospital in Livingston. This was her third major operation within six days. Rachel is a positive and determined person, and she is committed to ensuring a successful period of recovery and rehabilitation.

'Olivia was a wonderful daughter, a loving sister to Samuel, Amelia and Isabella, and a good friend to many. A lively, fun and affectionate little girl, she was dearly loved by everyone who knew her. Her tragic death came two weeks after the birth of our fourth child, and we feel privileged to have had an opportunity to be a family of six for a short period of time.

'We do not yet know how long Rachel will remain in hospital, so we have been unable to make arrangements for Olivia's funeral. We will do so once the situation regarding Rachel's recovery becomes clearer.

'We would like to express our deep gratitude to everyone for their sympathy and support. This includes the Donachie and Purves families, friends, colleagues at Martin Currie, churches and the local community in Colinton. We have been touched by everyone's kindness, and strengthened by the messages we have received through cards, letters and phone calls.

'We are extremely grateful for the flowers and soft toys that have been placed in Redford Drive and sent to us directly. We have collected all the cards and will cherish these for many years to come. We have asked for the toys to be collected and donated to Children's Hospice Association Scotland, a wonderful charity that supports children with life limiting conditions and their families. We hope they will help bring comfort and happiness to the children who receive them.

'We would also like to thank Lothian and Borders Police, Bonaly Primary School and the staff of Edinburgh Royal Infirmary and St John's Hospital in Livingston for their professionalism and compassion over the past week.

'Finally, we are grateful to the press for their assistance in helping the police appeal for witnesses to assist with their investigation. Looking forward though, I ask the media to please respect our continued wish for privacy to grieve for Olivia, support our three young children, and help Rachel in her recovery.'

Paul Donachie 8 June 2007

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

A book of remembrance containing messages of support attached to the flowers left at Redford Drive and Westgarth Avenue will be created for Olivia Donachie's family.

All flowers placed at this location were taken away by City of Edinburgh Council today (8th June) and recycled.

The family will issue no further statement.

A 31-year-old man has appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court in connection with the death of Olivia Donachie.