GOOD NEWS: Hemel Hempstead charity receives donation from Abbot’s Hill School 

A Hemel Hempstead charity has received a donation of over £1,000 from Abbot’s Hill School (AHS).

The Abbot’s Hill Parents’ Association ran an Easter raffle and Easter egg design competition to raise funds for Billy’s Wish, a local charity fighting knife crime.

The school was overwhelmed with the positive response and number of local businesses that came forward to support the raffle.

There were over five hampers to be won – with prizes ranging from Smiggle Arts and Crafts to treats for the whole family as well as alcoholic drinks and lots of chocolate! 

Speaking on behalf of Billy’s family, Sally Masson, Billy’s aunt and chair of the trustees said: “We can’t wait to get back into schools with our Billy’s Wish message to children. It’s so heart-breaking to hear about knife crime in the news, even this week, when no one should have been out. 

“We are thrilled with the support from AHS, both financially and for spreading awareness of such an important issue.”

Katharine Harper, the charity’s education officer, commented: “Now it is more important than ever for Billy’s Wish to reach schools. Local and national headlines show a widespread concern that as lockdown restrictions ease, crimes related to gangs, drugs and knives will increase due to frustrations over unresolved issues. 

“We have started to see the reality of this at Billy’s Wish. With schools now fully open there has been a sharp increase in subscribers to our Education Programme, which can be taught in school. Worryingly, as soon as schools fully opened, we also had enquiries from teachers who have children as young as ten carrying knives. 

“The money raised by AHS will go a long way to help fund our school visits in the next few months. We know from feedback given by teachers and young people alike, that sharing Billy’s story directly to pupils, in both primary and secondary schools has a huge impact. 

“The amazingly generous donation will also help us to develop new ways we can support children in keeping away from knives and finding positive alternatives.”