BBC’s Matt Baker pays tribute to brave Co Antrim teen

Tributes have been paid to Newtownabbey teenager, Adelle Keown, who passed away on July 10 after a brave battle with leukaemia.
By Russell Keers
Published 14th Jul 2020, 13:23 BST
Matt Baker paid tribute to Adelle.Matt Baker paid tribute to Adelle.
Matt Baker paid tribute to Adelle.

The inspirational teen, who was the daughter of Leanne and Robert, twin of Aaron and sister of Rebecca and Carter, participated in last year’s BBC Children in Need Rickshaw Challenge, helping to raise millions.

Adelle was part of a team of six young people from across the UK who joined The One Show’s Matt Baker on an eight-day Rickshaw Challenge in aid of charity in November 2019.

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In a statement issued to this paper, Mr Baker paid a heartfelt tribute to Adelle.

He said: “I think I speak for everyone at Children in Need when I say that Adelle was an inspirational and life changing young person. I had the honour of cycling alongside her and watching her grow in confidence throughout the Rickshaw Challenge.

“You could see that she was having the time of her life and it’s now a memory that I shall cherish. When I spoke to her just a few months ago I was once again impressed by her grit and determination in fighting leukaemia.

“It was good to share our memories of life on the road and humbling to be told that taking part in the Rickshaw Challenge had meant the world to her. My thoughts and condolences are with her family at this difficult time.”

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A BBC spokesperson added: “We know Adelle will be sorely missed by her family, friends, and everyone that knew her and we are sending them our deepest condolences. We’d like to thank everyone at Cancer Fund for Children in Northern Ireland who supported her and her family through treatment.”

A post on the Funeral Times site said: “A celebration of Adelle’s life will be restricted to family and friends due to current guidelines, but those attending are asked to wear an orange item of clothing.”

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Related topics:NewtownabbeyBBC