This Sunday, the Pudsey community will gather for a poignant event in memory of 11-year-old Matilda Pritchard, turning grief into action through a charity litter pick.
- The event commemorates Matilda’s wish for a cleaner world, inspired by her fondness for picking up litter with her father.
- Matilda’s family has launched a fundraising campaign, quickly surpassing their initial target, aiming now to support the Eco-Schools program.
- The campaign has drawn significant support from family, friends, and strangers, highlighting Matilda’s impactful legacy.
- Keep Britain Tidy has recognized Matilda’s vision, with leaders commending her dedication to a litter-free environment.
This Sunday marks a special day for the residents of Pudsey as they come together in a collective effort to remember Matilda Pritchard, the young daughter of Steve and Anna Pritchard. The community will participate in a charity litter pick, a tribute to Matilda’s dedication to a cleaner environment, which she cherished profoundly. This gathering serves not only as a memorial but also as a catalyst for environmental change, reflecting Matilda’s belief in small acts making a big difference.
Steve Pritchard, Matilda’s father, shares how their walks in the park, collecting litter together, became cherished moments. “I used to walk with her,” he recalls, emphasizing not just the act of cleaning but the shared experiences and the joy Matilda found in seeing the world a little cleaner. This event is about more than picking up trash; it’s about cherishing and continuing the aspirations of a remarkable young girl who dreamed of a pristine world.
Amidst their overwhelming grief, the Pritchard family found solace by dedicating efforts toward Matilda’s vision of a litter-free environment. Soon after Matilda’s passing, they initiated a fundraising campaign to honor her memory, setting a target of £11,213, a number symbolic of her birthdate. Within weeks, the appeal exceeded expectations, demonstrating the love and commitment of those who were touched by her story.
The campaign’s success has inspired the family to set a more ambitious goal – raising £42,000 to fund the Keep Britain Tidy’s Eco-Schools program for five years. This program aims to educate children about environmental stewardship, ensuring that Matilda’s dream continues through future generations. The substantial support from the community underscores Matilda’s lasting impact, as individuals rally to keep her spirit alive.
Allison Ogden-Newton OBE, of Keep Britain Tidy, acknowledges Matilda’s inspiring vision. Her message is clear: even small players can effect significant change. Matilda’s passion for environmental care stands as a testament to her enduring influence. The special event at Pudsey Park is a vivid reminder that Matilda’s dream is shared by many, emphasizing the universal desire for a cleaner, more responsible future.
The community’s commitment to Matilda’s dream demonstrates the profound impact one individual’s vision can have on the world.
