Family of girl killed by tree in plea to help crew who battled to save her
THE heartbroken family of a sixyear- old girl killed by a tree at her primary school have paid tribute to her by raising thousands of pounds for the emergency service that battled to save her life.
Ella Henderson is thought to have died on her mother’s 40th birthday weekend.
Ella was hit by a branch at Gosforth Park First School, in Newcastle, on Friday. She was rushed to the Royal Victoria Infirmary by air ambulance, but died as a result of her injuries on Saturday.
By Saturday evening, a charity page for Great North Air Ambulance Service was created and it has already raised over £ 30,000.
Posting on Facebook, the tragic girl’s courageous mum Vikki wrote: “This is not a post I thought I’d be writing for my 40th but they got to Ella so quickly and helped her the best they could.”
Vikki is married to Ella’s dad Neil and the couple have another
‘ I’ve chosen this charity because their mission means a lot to me’
daughter, Abi. She added: “I’m asking for donations to Great North Air Ambulance Service.
“I’ve chosen this charity because their mission means a lot to me, and I hope that you’ll consider contributing as a way of celebrating with me. Every little bit will help me reach my goal.”
Great North Air Ambulance Service said they were “overwhelmed by the response to Vikki’s fundraiser”.
A source said: “Vikki’s actions in setting up the page, and everyone’s generosity in supporting it, will mean other people can benefit from the care of our team.
“Our thoughts are with all those affected by the tragedy.”
Sharing the fund- raising link on Facebook, Sky Sports presenter Pete Graves wrote: “The family of the poor little girl who passed away earlier after being struck by a falling tree at school are raising money for the @ GNairambulance. My love, thoughts and prayers are with them at this terrible time. Please donate guys.”
Police and the health and safety executive have launched a joint investigation into the tragedy.
A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: “Our officers are continuing to support her family and our thoughts are with them at this incredibly difficult time.”
Flowers and cards were placed at the school gates paying tribute to Ella and her family. One note read:
“To our lovely Rainbow Ella. We will miss you so much, you and your lovely family are in our thoughts and prayers, from everyone at 1st Brunton Rainbows and 2nd Brunton Brownies.”
Grief- stricken friends and family also sent scores of messages of condolences as they contributed to Vikki’s fundraiser.
Jennifer Lyn posted: “We have been thinking about you all and Ella non- stop. Zoe just can’t comprehend it all, she misses Ella so
much. Sending every bit of our love to you all on this horrible day. Words just can’t express how we feel. Love to you all.”
Karen Samples wrote: “We are absolutely heartbroken and devastated for you. There really are no words to express how desperately sorry we are. You and Abi are in our thoughts and prayers. Fly high beautiful Ella. Xxxxx”
Fahina Khan said: “Sending love and prayers to you and your little family. I’m so sorry for your loss;
cannot believe it. Will miss her little smiles in the morning school runs. Lots of love.”
Hannah Chapelhow posted: “Oh how we will miss seeing Ella with you on the school run.
“It feels like only yesterday she was in her pushchair but she blossomed into a beautiful independent little girl. Sending love to you all. xx”
Headteacher Leanne Lamb said the entire school community was “shocked and devastated”.