By Tim Parsons-
Manchester United striker, Marcus Rashford,(pictured0 and Dennis the Menace and Gnasher participated in three-days of “NatWest Thrive summer holiday fun”. The scheme wants to help children with their “self-belief, appreciate their talents and get into good money habits”.
The event occurred after NatWest joined forces with Rushford, National Youth Agency and 23 youth clubs around the country to launch NatWest Thrive with Marcus Rashford.
Over the three days children and their families, or carers took part in lots of NatWest Thrive activities at different game stations around the hub, collecting pocket money stamps along the way that they can they trade in for a NatWest Thrive Goody Bag and donate a book to the Magic Breakfast – a charity providing free breakfasts in schools.
Rashford is currently being pursued by PSG, who have already contacted the star’s representatives over a potential move this summer as a long-term replacement for none other than Lionel Messi. Rashford has one year remaining on his deal, but United have the option to extend it by another year, realistically leaving him with two years left.
He is generally regarded as a role model, though his penalty misses of Euro 2020 didn;t do him much favours amongst his several years.
Branch manager Ed Perry said the event was a great opportunity to do some fun free activities with children this summer, adding that the interactive games in branch was also designed to help kids think about their dreams and ambitions, learn about the value of persistence and patience, and pick up some money know-how, which is a key part of our purpose as a bank supporting young people to reach their full potential.
The community hub which opened in 2021 features hot desks and events space for the use of local entrepreneurs. It also offers free hot drinks, wi-fi and advice to those seeking to start small a business in Bristol, whether NatWest customers or not.
“The whole purpose of the hubs is to provide a space and venue that supports local people and communities helping them to thrive,” said Ed.
In its focus in helping children pursue long term business goals, it seems to be missing the necessary inspiration for children to take their education seriously in the meantime, and build their intellect during summer periods, rather than just waste time throughout the summer in fun activities.
Organisers believe the activities were beneficial to children, especially with the presence and support of a football star.
Marta Proietti, Events Manager at NatWest’s Cambridge branch, said it was “a great opportunity” for kids to do something free over the summer. She said: “The interactive games will help your kids think about their dreams and ambitions, learn about the value of persistence and patience, and pick up some money know-how, which are is a key part of our purpose as a bank supporting young people to reach their full potential.
“The branch hub is a community facility with events spaces, meeting rooms, pop up stations to work in, free teas and coffees, and free WiFi for local businesses, entrepreneurs, charities and organisations to use.