Woodlington

Chapter 20 - Lockdown

The following morning, everything changed.

Alex and Mrs Dowling listened in silence as the news reader's voice crackled from the old radio.

"The morning's top story:

Government officials have declared a state of emergency in the rural town of Woodlington, where the death toll currently stands at 10.

Earlier this morning, Police finally confirmed that the Whipley and Barnett massacres are linked.

Inspector Burdock, one of those at the heart of the investigation, had the following to say:

'The situation is undoubtedly serious, but if we are sensible, remain diligent, and work together, our chances of catching those responsible remain good.'

Previously assumed to be the work of perpetrators unknown, it is now feared the killers may belong to the town itself. Understandably, police have cautioned against such speculation.

As of this morning, a curfew has been issued by the local council - unless commuting to or from work, no persons are to be outside after 10pm. Anyone caught breaking the curfew will be arrested immediately.

In a related story, reports are emerging that DNA matching the infamous killer Richard Blackmore, was found at the home of the Whipleys.

If true, this raises serious questions.

For those unfamiliar with the name, Richard, a former resident of Woodlington, was responsible for the brutal murder of his wife and four children seven years ago. His body was discovered in a nearby cemetery, where it was determined he'd ended the spree with the taking of his own life.

An exhumation is scheduled for later this morning at the family mausoleum, and the public are strongly advised to keep their distance.

Meanwhile, Tory Counciler Amanda Kegan, has placed blame for the atrocities firmly at the feet of the Labour Party, saying –"

Mrs Dowling switched the radio off.

Her face was white.

"Mum?" asked Alex, hesitantly.

When her mother finally spoke, her voice sounded strange.

"Have you written to Mrs Cribb yet?"HHHHhHHHHkdfkdjldfsdflgasd

"What?"

"Mrs Cribb. Did you write and thank her for keeping your stuff?"

"Yeah," said Alex nodding. "Last night, but what's that got to do with..."

She fell silent as a tear rolled down her mother's cheek.

She watched as it reached her chin, hovered for a moment, then fell, splashing onto her top.

"Come on Mum," said Alex, stroking her arm. "What's the matter?"

Mrs Dowling started to sob.

"I... I thought I'd done right," she wailed. "I thought bringing you here was for the best."

"But it was. Woodlington's brilliant."

"Not if... not if you and Jack... you and Jack get..."

She couldn't finish. The idea of anything happening to her children it seemed, was too much.

Alex let the tears take their course.

Afterwards, Mrs Dowling hugged her fiercely, pulled a handkerchief from her pocket, and blew her nose.

"I'm sorry dear," she said at last. "I'd just never forgive myself if something happened to you."

"It won't Mum. Tons of people live here, what're the odds of this nutter coming for us? Besides, I bet he'll lie low for a while, police'll be everywhere."