Hear Michael's father
Lloyd talking about the family's campaign

The parents of Michael Chapman have come away
from a meeting today with Justice Secretary Jack Straw
very hopeful.

Although Mr Straw could not promise anything
he agreed with a lot of what they were saying, they said.

Michael Chapman, 16, from Sittingbourne,
died after being attacked at The Gore playing fields in Gore Court
Cricket Club in 2006.

His killer, Lee Cowie, served less than two
years of a four-year manslaughter sentence.

Lloyd Chapman told Kentonline: “He agreed that
the sentencing on what happened to Michael should have been far
greater, he also agreed that people should be locked up for longer
and should complete all their sentence before being released.”

They also spoke about the charity the Chapmans
have started called Protect out Children Against Violence. To
register as a charity they need to raise £5,000 a year, which the
Chapmans believe will be difficult to achieve.

Mr Chapman said Mr Straw would be looking
into the issue, although he could not promise anything.

Mr Chapman went on to say: “We are not going
to go away, we are a national campaign now, not just a local one.
We still have a long way to go but trust me we will get there. I am
a determined guy, nothing will step in my way and it will benefit
everyone.”