Girl killed by car on Kendal pitch was ‘force of nature’ | Global News Avenue

Her family said a girl was killed when a car hit the stadium where she played football was “a force of nature.”

Poppy Atkinson, 10, was fatally killed by a vehicle while attending training at Kendall Rugby Club in Cumbria on Wednesday night.

Her family described her as “the focus of life.”

They said she was determined to be a professional footballer and play for Manchester United.

An eight-year-old girl, also from Kendall, was injured and was taken to the hospital for treatment.

Cumbria police arrested a 40-year-old man suspected of dangerous driving resulting in death, but said “there is no indication that the incident was intentional”.

Poppy’s family said their lives revolve around the love of football for girls “small, petite and beautiful” girls, adding: “Many people who know her and know she has the determination to improve and win, she will undoubtedly achieve her goals in the day.”

“She is the power of nature. She is so special and so good to the world.

“Poppy touched a lot of life and it’s easy to see why her energy, character, spirit and passion for football are infectious and attracted a lot of people.

“Our life and the many holes around us are poppy leaves are huge and we will never be complete again.”

Nick Turley, principal of Old Hutton CE Elementary School, said Poppy was a student and he said the community was destroyed.

He said: “Poppy is someone who brings joy, light and happiness to everything she does, she has a sense of humor and loves life.

“Our prayers will remain among the poppy’s family and as a school community we will do our best to support them.”

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