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From Jackie Weaver to Ziggy Stardust: Bath schoolgirl sets dressing-up challenge to raise money for Save the Children 

Bath resident Pearl Parkin, age 8, has set herself the challenge of dressing up as a different famous character for each day of lockdown, in a bid to raise funds for the charity Save the Children.

Spanning both the historical and contemporary, her creative embodiments include Billie Eilish, David Bowie, Frida Kahlo, Lady Gaga and even Jackie Weaver of Handforth Parish Council fame.  Each outfit has been intricately crafted from materials found around Pearl’s home with the help of her trusty assistant, 10 year-old brother Elliot. Their impressive and uncanny creations are shared daily via a dedicated Instagram page.

Pearl, who’s been home-learning with her family whilst her school is closed, started the challenge to keep herself entertained during the Covid-19 lockdown and has vowed to continue each day until she returns to the classroom.

She has raised over £600 for the charity since she started dressing up almost two weeks ago, but with schools in England now due to re-open on 8th March, she has set herself the target of raising a total of £1,000 in time for her return.

Pearl says: “I want to raise money for children around the world who might need help right now because of Covid, or other reasons. I find it really upsetting that some children, like refugees, don’t have the same as me.

“I decided to dress up each day because I love making costumes with my family. My favourite outfit so far has probably been Lady Gaga from her Telephone video. Next, I’d like to try dressing up as Ariane Grande, Princess Leia or maybe someone from Little Mix.

“My advice to adults struggling to make an effort with their clothes during lockdown is to just give dressing up a try because it does make you feel really happy.”

Elliot says: “The Lady Gaga headpiece is completely made out of paper, except some tin foil used for the telephone dial.

“For the stick that Rey Skywalker uses, it’s actually an old piñata stick with the fabric ripped off and then some different old fabric glued on. The Björk costume we completely made out of paper.”

All the money raised for Save the Children will support vulnerable children both here in the UK and around the world, so they can reach their full potential and build a better future.

Tammy Hoskins, Community Fundraising and Engagement Manager says: “We are so grateful for the support of Pearl and her family – the costumes are so fun and have really brought a smile to our faces. Save the Children’s work is made possible by inspiring children like Pearl and their amazing commitment to make the world a better place for other children.”

If you would like to read more about Pearl’s challenge and support her fundraising, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/pearl-dressing-up

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For more information about this fundraiser please contact Tammy Hoskins by email on t.hoskins@savethechildren.org.uk

Photos available: 

https://www.contenthubsavethechildren.org/Share/h876m0461j8telcau80k7hffp6erl705