Middleton supporters launch 0900 phone line

1:30 PM

Supporters of Mark Middleton have launched an 0900 line to raise money for his cause.

Middleton is due to be sentenced on Friday for threatening to kill Paul Dally, the murderer of Karla Cardno, Middleton's step-daughter.

The co-ordinator of the service Dermot Nottingham said the $5 per minute calls hold information about a nationwide show of support for Middleton planned by his supporters for this Friday.

The show of support includes plans for protest rallies outside every District Court Building in New Zealand.

Middleton support co-ordinator Garth McVicar said the rallies would climax with a speech written by Middleton while he was in jail awaiting his sentencing.

Mr McVicar said he had visited Middleton in jail last Thursday. He was in solitary confinement.

Taupo rally organiser Graeme Trass said he expected a big turnout from people around the area.

"We are expecting a big turnout especially from locals at Mangakino and Reporoa as those communities have had some tough years recently with brutal murders," said Mr Trass.

- ROTORUA DAILY POST, HERALD ONLINE STAFF