Prince William Meets Grenfell Survivors at Loftus Road
Praises QPR's '‘incredible work' ahead of sixth anniversary of tragedy
Prince William (centre) in the stand at Loftus Road
Prince William has visited Loftus Road, home of QPR FC to meet survivors of the Grenfell Tower fire, ahead of the sixth anniversary of the tragedy, which claimed the lives of 72 people on June 14, 2017.
The Acton Villa supporting Prince of Wales spent time with survivors and heard how football has helped them since the fire, as well as what the future holds.
He also met QPR Community Trust CEO Andy Evans to learn about the work the club does with those impacted, through mentoring, mental health support and personal development.
Following his visit, the Prince tweeted @KensingtonRoyal: “ A great afternoon spent hearing about the incredible work that @QPR has done to support the Grenfell community over the past six years. The disaster has had a lasting impact on those affected but football has provided a much-needed lifeline to many.
“ QPR’s support for the community extends far beyond the pitch, with their outreach work including mentoring and personal development for young people in the local area.”
Prince William also showed his support last year, when he and the Princess of Wales laid a wreath at a multi-faith service at the foot of Grenfell Tower organised by Grenfell United with the survivors and their families and friends in attendance.
Following Prince William’s visit, Andy Evans, himself a local resident who was brought up in the area, said: “It was a very special afternoon. It was a little bit surreal to be wandering around Loftus Road with Prince William and talking about football, but he very seriously believes football clubs have a role to play in the community.
“He said what we have done around Grenfell was particularly impressive which was great to hear. It was a day that makes me proud of the club and the Trust.”
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Prince William also spent time meeting Trust staff members who have been working closely with those affected, and Andy said there were two subjects which were of particular interest.
“One was how the events of Grenfell had impacted people in the community, especially around mental health, and he was also interested in the future, and how could he personally help support the Grenfell community.”
Andy added, “I think the close connection we have with the community affected comes from a position of trust. I think they trusted us as a club and we have continued to be true to our word. And we will continue to do that going forward.
“We will be here to support the community for years to come.”
Prince William learns about the club's initiatives from staff
For the Grenfell community, this sixth anniversary on June 14 will be especially poignant as it marks 72 months since they lost 72 loved ones.
They will once again hold a Silent Walk on June 14, gathering at 6pm at Notting Hill Methodist Church in Lancaster Road and invite supporters to join them, wearing something green to show unity in the fight for justice.
A 'silent walk' is to be held on the Grenfell anniversary
Find out more on the Grenfell United web site.
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June 2, 2023