Around 200 members of the public and representatives from urban abuse associations from across Spain turned up Saturday night to hold a candlelight vigil at the remains of the Priors home in Vera.

Helen & Len Prior’s home was demolished two years on orders of the Junta de Andalucia after their building licence was revoked. Helen & Len now live in the garage, which was not demolished.

After the demolition, the Constitution Court overturned the original decision to demolish the house. The Junta de Andalucia has since renewed legal efforts to reinstate the original demolition order.

A large number of Spanish media outlets turned up for the event, including Canal Sur TV.

Many of the supporters bought candles which were ceremonially lit around the main bonfire.

Mrs Prior gave a short speech in which she thanked everybody for their support and promised to continue efforts against the Junta. She apologised for the absence of Mr Prior, whose ill health meant doctors recommended against long exposure to the cold. Mr Priors health has been deteriorating rapidly since the demolition.

She was followed by Maura Hillen, president of local urban abuse group AUAN, who reminded everybody of Monday’s march in Almería and asked for their continual support.
The night continued as participants sang songs late into the night.

The night was one of the coldest of the year, with temperatures dropping to just above freezing. However, the cold did not dampen the hopes for eventual justice for the Priors.

Original Source – The Reader