Last week, a five-year-old girl was fined £150 for operating an unlicensed lemonade stand in east London.
Yup. £150.
Unsurprisingly, the youngster was traumatised by the experience and was left feeling like she had done something really bad.
And while, thankfully, Tower Hamlets Council cancelled the note and hand-delivered an apology to the family, something pretty incredible happened not long after.
When news spread about the fine, businesses, festivals and markets around the world got in touch with the Spicer family, giving them the opportunity to set up a lemonade stand.
This summer, we want kids to make a stand. Our response to kind offers following lemonade fine. Spread the word! #MakeAStand pic.twitter.com/ItwyhNMHTn
— André Spicer (@andre_spicer) July 22, 2017
Borough Market invited the family to sell lemonade at their market, while LeeFest: The Neverland also offered the little girl an opportunity to sell lemonade at their festival next month.
Overwhelmed by the incredible gestures, the little girl's dad, Andrew, took to Twitter to not only thank those who offered their services to his daughter but to encourage other children who would love to have their own stand.
You sir are an amazing father for your little girl. Respect and prayers - God Speed.
— FondoOfTheMondo (@FondoOfTheMondo) July 24, 2017
“We have been overwhelmed by the kind response from people across the world. Dozens of festivals, markets and businesses have offered us an opportunity to set up a lemonade stand," he wrote.
"We hope they will extend this invitation to others who’d love to make a stand. Children could sell home-made lemonade, hand drawn comics or vegetables they have grown."
My niece made a nail bar last year aged 7 as she wanted to try it! I did everything I could to encourage her!!! She did well and loved it!
— Lorna Wiltshire (@youandyourstyle) July 23, 2017
Continuing, he added: “Young people could do more than sell things, like sharing films or music they’ve created, or gaining support for their local club."
“We learn through doing. Making a stand is a great opportunity for kids to share their interests, build confidence and contribute to our communities.
"This summer, it would be amazing to see children and young people at festivals, markets and businesses across the country showing the positive things they can do.”
feature image via Shutterstock
