Kendal: Girl who died in sports pitch crash named - as family pay tribute

A girl who died after she was hit by a car on a sports pitch has been named as 10-year-old Poppy Atkinson.

Paying tribute, the child's family said: "Poppy was the focal point of our lives, everything for us revolved around Poppy's love for football.

"Poppy touched so many lives, it was easy to see why, her energy, character, spirit and passion for football was infectious and touched huge numbers of people.

"Poppy was 100% determined to be a professional footballer. Many who know her, and who know her determination to improve and win, had no doubt she would achieve her goal to one day to play for Manchester United."

Her family said she idolised United and England players Ella Toone and Kobbie Mainoo as well as Lioness Georgia Stanway and former Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi "to name a few".

They said she was "a small, petite and beautiful 10-year-old, yet she played up an age group and proudly represented the Kendal United and county U12 teams".

Officers were called to the incident at Kendal Rugby Club in Cumbria shortly before 5pm on Wednesday.

A second child, an eight-year-old girl also from Kendal, was taken to hospital, with injuries said to be not life-threatening.

The driver of a black BMW i40, a 40-year-old man from Lancaster, has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and remains in police custody.

'She was so special'

In their statement, Poppy's family added: "Poppy was sister to seven-year-old Edward. Edward worshipped the ground Poppy walked on, he only ever wanted to be like her. Poppy would coach and support Edward with his football, it was so beautiful to see.

"The hole in our lives and so many around us that Poppy leaves is enormous, we will never be whole again. This world has lost a spirit like no other, she was a force of nature. She was so special, she was too good for this world."

'Incident not deliberate act'

In an earlier statement, Cumbria Police said: "At this time, there is no indication to suggest that this incident was a deliberate act.

"Investigative inquiries are continuing to establish the full circumstances of this incident and to inform a future coronial process.

"A multi-agency response will continue today to support people affected by this incident."

'Incredibly sad time'

Players and coaches from Kendal United Football Club saw the "horrific event".

In a statement, the club said: "We know that some Kendal United players and coaches witnessed this horrific event and as a club we would ask anyone affected to contact the committee who will offer support and help, where needed, at this incredibly sad time."

Kendal Rugby Club said: "We are co-operating fully with the authorities as they conduct their investigation - the club and all facilities are temporarily closed while this is carried out."

Man Utd pays tribute

Manchester United also paid tribute to the young girl.

In a statement, the Premier League club said: "On behalf of Ella, Kobbie and everyone at Manchester United, we send our heartfelt condolences to Poppy's family and friends for their devastating loss.

"Rest in peace Poppy."

MP Tim Farron, whose constituency includes Kendal, said the community was "stunned and in mourning".

"This is devastating, utterly heartbreaking news," he said on X. "I'm praying for the children and for their families and friends."

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