Erica the Streaker will return to Godshill Model Village “with a twist” after a huge backlash from fans forced organisers to rethink her removal.
The tiny figure had entertained generations of visitors to the Isle of Wight attraction before staff took her away following a wave of complaints that she was ‘inappropriate’.
Fans quickly hit back, and a social media poll produced an overwhelming vote in favour of bringing her home. They voted 98 per cent in favour (5,023 votes) with 2 per cent (66 votes) voting against the return.
Now the model village plans to place Erica in different spots around the gardens throughout the season, turning her comeback into a fundraiser for The Breast Friends Isle of Wight charity.
A response nobody expected
Godshill Model Village says the reaction to Erica’s disappearance genuinely overwhelmed the team. In a statement, the attraction said,
“The conversation that followed has shown just how fond many people are of this tiny figure and the sense of humour she represents.
“We’ve decided she will be returning to the Model Village – but with a twist, as we want her return to do some good.”
Staff will now use Erica to raise both awareness and money for the attraction’s chosen breast cancer charity.
“It feels like a fitting way for one of our most talked-about residents to support an important cause.”
Organisers want visitors to keep their eyes peeled to spot where she’s hiding next.
Charity welcomes the news
The Breast Friends Isle of Wight director Sammi Densham says the charity feels absolutely delighted about Erica’s return.
Donations raised through the initiative will support the charity’s work across the Island, including its Lemon Aid drop-in support hub in Ryde and its free Tiggs Transport Service for people affected by breast cancer. Sammi told the BBC,
“We’d like to thank everyone who voted for Erica’s return and the team at the Model Village for supporting our work in such a fun and unique way.
“Every donation made through this initiative will help us continue supporting local people affected by breast cancer across the Island.”
Source: BBC and heads up from loyal reader, Seb
