Arbroath FC will hold a minute’s silence today in memory of tragic schoolgirl Minnie Merriman after her alleged murder in the town.

The nine-year-old died at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee after she was found seriously injured at Elliot Industrial Estate in Arbroath in the early hours of Monday August 3.

The youngster and her family, from West Yorkshire, were camping in the area at the time. Three other members of Minnie’s family were also taken to hospital.

Christopher Rice, Minnie’s father, appeared at Forfar Sheriff Court last week, where he faced a single charge of murder.

The Red Lichties announced that it would hold the tribute in her memory before their championship match against Inverness at Gayfield.

A statement read: “We ask all fans to join us in observing a minute’s silence before kick off in memory of nine-year-old Minnie Merriman, following her recent passing and those affected by the recent events in Arbroath.”

The club paid tribute after it emerged a health board is investigating a potential data breach after the youngster’s heath records were allegedly accessed by a member of staff.

NHS Tayside confirmed an investigation has been launched after Minnie’s health records were allegedly accessed without permission or a clinical need.

Laurie Merriman, Minnie’s mum, also paid tribute to her “first true love” in a heart-breaking message this week following her daughter’s death.

She wrote: “You have always and will continue being my strength, we are connected eternally, I have never felt a love so deep and a connection so strong.

“My first true love, my twin, I am connected to you in life and in death, and my girl that cannot be broken, I will fight to stay strong for your little brothers.

“I will hold my head high, knowing you will always be holding my hand for the rest of my life. I will see you again, that I know for sure. I love you eternally.”

In another tribute, headteacher of Hendal Primary School in Wakefield, Kelly Ashton, described her as a “kind and thoughtful girl”.