By Andrew Brown Stand Up For Southport
The owner of an ice cream van in Southport has been praised for giving away 2,700 ice creams for free to local children at a community event in the town.
Peter Croome, who operates the Mr Whippy van at events around the North West, turned up to support the Southport Community Day, which took place on Thursday (8th August 2024) at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, on Preston New Road.
The event was organised by local teacher Laura Toby and supported by others in the local community.
It was held following the tragedy in July in which three young girls died and several others were injured and was a way of bringing families together to enjoy a fun day in a safe and secure environment.
Chloe Fullwood, who took pictures at the event, said: “What an incredible act of service for his community
“I cannot even begin to say how much this meant to us all but especially the children. Thank you Peter Croome.”
One local resident said: “What a Diamond. Peter Croome is one of the local ice cream guys from Southport, he gave over 2,700 ice creams away for FREE. That is a gentleman. If you see two guys selling, pick Peter first, as he always supports his local community.”
Southport Community Day was organised on the back of a social media post by a local teacher, on maternity leave, Laura Toby. She commented asking for a safe space to hold a craft class for children, in the aftermath of the tragic incident that took place on Monday 29th July.
Chloe Fullwood, a member of the Church, saw the post, gained permission to offer the Church building from the local Church leadership and then posted, offering to help organise the event, along with Esther Wall, the activities specialist of the Southport Church.
Their band of three quickly grew, with Naj Ayhan giving invaluable sourcing input, and so many more offering their time and talents to help run the event. Add to the mix many, many local businesses and individuals, who donated absolutely everything to make the day a huge success. From a bbq to hair braiding, ice cream vans to sensory and soft play, donkey rides to bouncy castles, a party bus to visiting movie characters, disco, entertainment, toys and clothing, all donated completely free of charge. This meant the event could be 100% free for everyone who attended.
There was also a counsellor in attendance, with first aid, security and emergency services cover also.
The chapel of the building was reserved for quiet reflection and prayer, where people were invited to sign a book of remembrance and children were encouraged to colour in gift tags, write their thoughts on them, and hang them, with pink ribbon, on a lit white tree.
Laura said: ‘I am completely overwhelmed with the support from our incredible community, but not in the least bit surprised. The goal was to make at least one child smile and all I could see all day was a sea full of adults and children smiling from ear to ear. I honestly cannot put into words how incredible and emotional today was.
“To every single person who volunteered or donated, thank you could never be enough. To everyone who visited, I really hope this event gave you reassurance about how strong and supportive our community really is.
“You are safe, you are loved and Southport really is stronger together.’
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