The family of Nottingham’s revered official Robin Hood, Tim Pollard, has issued an urgent public warning regarding opportunistic individuals attempting to profit from his recent passing through fraudulent funeral donation schemes. This grave concern highlights a troubling trend where genuine grief is exploited for illicit gain, prompting the family to take decisive action and inform the community.
For over three decades, Tim Pollard was the beloved embodiment of the legendary outlaw, a familiar and cherished figure at countless events and local gatherings, including the popular Robin Hood Beer and Cider Festival. His portrayal of Robin Hood Nottingham brought joy and a sense of heritage to many, making his recent death a significant loss for the city.
Tim passed away at the age of 61 at the end of June, leaving behind a legacy deeply woven into the fabric of Nottingham’s identity. His private funeral took place on Wednesday, July 30, with the family initially accepting donations via an online fundraising page to honor his memory and support a charity close to his heart.
However, relatives quickly discovered an alarming emergence of unauthorized requests for donations, masquerading as legitimate collection points for the funeral. These fraudulent appeals represent a callous act of charity fraud, preying on the public’s desire to show support and respect during a sensitive time.
In response to these pervasive funeral scams, the family released a heartfelt statement on Facebook on Thursday, July 31. They expressed profound gratitude to those who had genuinely contributed and attended, but also unequivocally denounced the deceitful practices by scammers, urging extreme caution among well-meaning individuals.
The statement clarified that only one official link had been established by the family and friends for donations, specifically benefiting a charity that provided invaluable support during their difficult period. This clear public warning aims to guide sympathetic donors away from fake schemes and ensure their contributions reach the intended cause.
Mr. Pollard’s enduring role as the city’s Robin Hood for more than thirty years cemented his place as a local icon. He is survived by his devoted daughter, and his late wife, Sally Pollard, had also famously served as Nottingham’s Maid Marian, further deepening their connection to the city’s lore.
The family’s message underscored the comfort they received from the community’s presence, shared stories, and outpouring of love during such an emotionally challenging time. Their vigilance against these malicious acts serves as a crucial reminder for everyone to be wary of online solicitations, especially concerning sensitive matters like memorial donations, and to verify sources diligently to avoid becoming victims of charity fraud and exploitation.
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