Backpacker murder suspects go on trial
Two men accused of the murder of two British backpackers on the island of Koh Tao last September have gone on trial in Thailand.
Zaw Lin and Wai Phyo, migrant workers from Myanmar, deny killing David Miller, 24, from Jersey, and Hannah Witheridge, 23, from Great Yarmouth, Norfolk.
The pair also deny rape.
Hannah and David’s families have travelled to Thailand for the trial, which is being held on the island of Koh Samui.
David’s family said in a statement: "The act which ended David’s life devastated our family and his friends.
"Just hours before he died David was talking to us with his usual enthusiasm, describing the beauty of Koh Tao and the friendliness of the Thai people.
"Over the coming weeks we hope to gain a better understanding as to how such a wonderful young man lost his life in such idyllic surroundings in such a horrible way."
"This pain will remain a part of us for the rest of our lives. We have borne our thoughts in silence as we have not wanted to influence any court proceedings, but simply want to see justice done fairly and openly."
Hannah’s family said: "We of course want to see those responsible for the brutal murder of our precious girl brought to justice."
The verdicts are not expected until October
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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