A NINE year old girl who raised funds during the lock down for the Welsh Mountain Zoo at Colwyn Bay and charities on Anglesey, has received an award from the Prime Minister.

Poppy Roberts has been awarded the Prime Minister’s special Points of Light Award and a Hidden Heroes Award from local MP,Virginia Crosbie, for her outstanding fundraising activities.

During lockdown, Poppy Roberts, aged 9, from Anglesey, and her friends collected supplies and raised funds for the Welsh Mountain Zoo, bringing together food and bedding to care for 1,000 animals. Poppy has also raised more than £10,000 for other local charities on Anglesey.

In a personal letter to Poppy, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: “Every day I write to someone to say thank you for doing something special and today that person is you.

“You have shown such kindness in making sure the animals of the Welsh Mountain Zoo have feed and beds for the night. Now that the zoo has reopened, I hope that you and your family are able to visit the tigers, camels and pandas that your fundraising has helped.

“I know you have also raised thousands of pounds for local charities including Giddo’s Gift, which helps young people living with cancer.

“So, on behalf of the whole country, I am delighted to name you as the UK’s 1,443rd Point of Light.”

Poppy’s mother, Emma, said: “Poppy was absolutely thrilled at hearing she had won an award from the Prime Minister. She phoned all her friends and family to let them know.”

Virginia Crosbie, MP for Ynys Môn, added: “It is wonderful to see someone so young putting so much work into helping others less fortunate. Poppy is truly an inspiration to us, which is why I chose her as one of my Hidden Heroes earlier this year. I am absolutely delighted that the Prime Minister has given her this honour.”

Poppy is honoured at: https://www.pointsoflight.gov.uk/welsh-mountain-zoo-young-fundraiser/