Viktorija Sokolova: Wolverhampton's West Park reopens one week after murder
Flowers, teddies and tributes remain on the gates to the park where the 14-year-old was found dead.
West Park has reopened to the public one week after teenager Viktorija Sokolova was found dead.
Cards, teddy bears and flowers have been left on the fence around the Wolverhampton park, where the murdered 14-year-old's body was found last Thursday.
And after police spent a week scouring the park for evidence, the gates were reopened to the public today, Wolverhampton council confirmed.
Dozens of floral tributes have been left at the park for Viktorija, who had been a student at King's School in the city, while a signed school shirt and a soft toy were also left on the gates.
The school shirt said: "For Viktorija from St Edmunds. St Edmunds to Kings to Heaven".
WATCH: Footage from the park while it was closed
One floral tribute read: "We all miss you but you're in a better place now. Forever in our hearts and memories."
Another card added: "So sorry that your life was cut short. Wishing your family and loved ones love and warmth at this difficult time. God bless."
Viktorija, known as Tori, had been reported missing by her family only the day before.
Her body was discovered by a member of the public near the lake in West Park at about 7am on April 12.
Viktorija, who was born in Lithuania, was described as a ‘little angel’ by her devastated family who paid tribute to her following her death.
In a statement, her family said: “Viktorija was like a little angel, she made our lives so colourful and full of meaning.
"We can’t believe she has left us at such a young age. We will never forget you our sweetheart.
"You will be living in our hearts, soul and mind forever. Goodbye our little angel.”
An online fund to help her parents pay for her funeral has attracted donations from more than 420 people and has topped £5,700.
Tributes have also been paid to the victim online.
Sukhy Kaur said: "Rest in peace little angel. Sympathy to family and friends, thoughts are with you at this sad time."
Bethany Zielinskj, who set up the crowdfunding appeal, thanked those who had contributed.
She wrote: “Thank you so much everyone that has donated. We will make sure she has the best send off ever and help her family out as much as we can. We all need to stay strong.”
The 16-year-old accused of murdering and raping her will next appear in Wolverhampton Crown Court on June 8. He cannot be named for legal reasons
