Cumbrian school pays tribute to "much loved" pupil Poppy Atkinson

The 10-year-old was fatally struck by a car in Kendal on Wednesday

Poppy with her brother, Edward
Author: Tom HailePublished 7th Mar 2025
Last updated 10th Mar 2025

Tributes have continued to come in for a ten-year-old girl who died in a collision in Kendal.

Poppy Atkinson - who dreamed of being a professional footballer - was killed at the rugby club on Wednesday.

The following statement is issued on behalf of Nick Turley, headteacher of Old Hutton CE Primary, where Poppy was a pupil.

"As a school community we are all devastated to learn of the death of one of our pupils, Poppy Atkinson.

"Poppy was a much-loved member of Old Hutton Church of England Primary School and was someone who brought joy, light and happiness to all she did. She was a bundle of energy and was also a fantastic footballer, having had trials for a number of local teams.

"Poppy had a wonderful sense of humour and a deep love of life. This was evident in all her close friendships and in the relationships she had with all of our teaching staff. Our prayers will remain with Poppy’s family and as a school community we will do all we can to support them.

"This morning, teaching staff have spent time with Poppy’s classmates and some of their parents so that they have the opportunity to remember Poppy with the love and affection we all have for her. Children in our other year groups will also be able to talk about Poppy and to reflect on her wonderful life.

"We are continuing to work with the diocese, local authority and our pastoral team around extra support for our pupils and staff and will look to draw advice and support from educational psychologists in the coming days."

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