Today, Prince William took a moment to honor the remarkable life of Alford Gardner, one of the last surviving passengers from the Empire Windrush, who passed away at the age of 98.
Mr. Gardner was a trailblazer in cricket and a significant figure in the Caribbean community, known for his efforts to break down racial barriers.
He founded Britain’s first Caribbean cricket club in Leeds in 1948, just three months after arriving in the UK from Jamaica aboard the HMT Empire Windrush.
A Legacy of Courage and Community
In addition to his contributions to cricket, Gardner served as an engineer and motor mechanic in the RAF during World War II.
Last October, Prince William visited Mr. Gardner in Leeds for ITV’s documentary “Pride Of Britain: A Windrush Special,” where he had the opportunity to celebrate with him at Headingley cricket ground alongside cricket stars.
In a heartfelt message shared on Kensington Palace’s social media today, Prince William expressed his sorrow at Gardner’s passing and praised his courage, positivity, and the profound impact he had on many lives.
A Pioneer of the Windrush Generation
Mr. Gardner was among the first wave of the Windrush generation—Caribbean migrants who answered Britain’s call to help rebuild the country after World War II.
At just 22 years old, he boarded the ship in Kingston, Jamaica, with his brother, Gladstone.
They disembarked at Tilbury Docks in Essex on June 22, 1948, alongside hundreds of fellow Caribbean migrants.
During the ITV documentary commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Windrush generation, Mr. Gardner was celebrated by friends, family, and cricket legends.
The moment was filled with laughter and nostalgia as he jokingly reflected on his cricketing experiences.
Building Community Through Cricket
Gardner shared stories about establishing the Caribbean cricket club, emphasizing that it served as a hub for the local community.
When asked by Prince William about the origins of the club, he recounted the fun and camaraderie that brought people together, despite the challenges they faced.
The prince was fascinated and expressed admiration for Gardner’s unwavering spirit.
Recognition and Legacy
Last October, Mr. Gardner was honored with an Outstanding Contribution award at the Daily Mirror Pride Of Britain Awards.
He also received recognition from King Charles, who praised his portrait at a Buckingham Palace reception, calling it “marvellous.”
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) highlighted Mr. Gardner’s contributions to the black cricketing community, referring to him as a pioneer and a trailblazer.
Baroness Floella Benjamin and Leeds City Council also honored him, with the council presenting him with the Leeds Award in recognition of his significant contributions.
Reflections on Life and Resilience
In 2018, marking 70 years since he arrived in the UK, Mr. Gardner reflected on his journey with pride, stating, “If I had to do it again, I would do every damn thing just the same.”
He had been warned about potential deportations as early as 1987, which prompted him to apply for British citizenship.
The Windrush scandal that emerged in 2018, revealing the UK Home Office’s failure to keep records of migrants, deeply affected him.
He called the situation a “disgrace,” emphasizing the hard work of those who contributed to rebuilding the country.
A Fond Farewell
In the wake of Mr. Gardner’s passing, the ECB expressed their condolences, recognizing his role in fostering black cricket in the UK.
Leeds North East MP Fabian Hamilton also shared his sorrow, noting Gardner’s pioneering spirit and his lasting legacy of equality and social justice.
As we remember Alford Gardner, it’s clear that his life was marked by resilience, community spirit, and a deep love for cricket.
He not only paved the way for future generations but also left a legacy of joy and dignity that will be cherished by all who knew him.
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