Prince William hailed the Windrush generation as he met one of the first arrivals as part of a Daily Mirror-backed Pride of Britain documentary. Marking the 75th anniversary of the Empire Windrush docking at Tilbury, the hour-long programme will tell the story of those who left the Caribbean for a new life in Britain.
The Prince of Wales this week met Alford Gardner, 97, who came over on the Windrush in 1948 and went on to work in the engineering industry in Leeds. For 75 years Alford has been a pillar of his community, establishing the Caribbean Cricket Club, where youngsters honed their skills.
The documentary charts Alford’s rich life and contributions to his community, from serving in the RAF to having his portrait commissioned by the King to mark the anniversary. It will feature stories celebrating what the arrivals brought to British life as well as shedding light on the struggle many had to gain citizenship, despite living here and paying taxes.
Their treatment was revealed in what became known as the Windrush scandal. In the broadcast, William joins several cricket legends to surprise a pioneer.
Presenters include Sir Trevor McDonald, Alesha Dixon, Mel B and Judi Love. All have links to Windrush.
They will meet members of the first generation of more than 500,000 who arrived from 1948 to 1971. One, a midwife, went on to deliver thousands of babies in the NHS.
Alison Phillips, editor of the Daily Mirror, said: “We are delighted to be working with ITV on this hugely important documentary to highlight the achievements – and challenges – members of the Windrush Generation and their descendants have faced in this 75th anniversary year.
“We hope it brings the very best values of Pride of Britain to a documentary which will entertain, inspire and challenge us all.”
Thursday marks the 75th anniversary of HMT Empire Windrush arriving in the UK
Each contributor will be invited to the Pride of Britain Awards with TSB in October to represent the Windrush Generation and receive an award on their behalf.
Nicola Lloyd, Factual Commissioning Editor at ITV, said: “The Windrush Generation is a profoundly significant part of recent British history and we want to mark its 75th anniversary by hearing the fascinating stories of people who left the Caribbean to come to Britain.
“These are people who faced enormous challenges and, as we know, suffered mistreatment. Their stories promise to move us all.”
