R.I.P
The Dumping Ground
2013-2019
In 2013, sometime at the beginning of the year, a spin-off of Tracy Beaker Returns showed up on TV. It was the feature length premiere of a show called The Dumping Ground.
CBBC viewers had a lot of good times with their favourite shows, but the Dumping Ground was the highlight of all the drama series that aired on CBBC this decade. No one could forget all the happy times the YP, Mike and May-Li shared at Ashdene Ridge, previously known as Elmtree House in The Story Of Tracy Beaker, including the unusual times like when Jody entered Wonderland - of course, we all remember that, and we also remember Dumping Ground Island too. Yesterday, we were forced to say a heartfelt goodbye to Sasha, Tyler, Jody, Floss, Finn, Taz, Sid, Jay, Bird, Mike and everyone who was present at the Dumping Ground from the moment it premiered. To me, I wish I had seen the 2010's on CBBC unfold and shows like Strange Hill High and Scream Street take their places, but even CBBC characters and stars have to keep strong, because the beloved group of care kids that have shaped CBBC since 2002's Tracy Beaker series. It's too late for me, but to some of you who watched CBBC, the Dumping Ground, alongside The Worst Witch, was the best live-action series the channel could air. Now, this Christmas, we remember the Dumping Ground with a heavy heart and an open mind. I've been so foolish in the last few years, and I wish I'd seen it all, living a better decade instead of ignoring CBBC and CBeebies. The Dumping Ground will be remembered forever as one of the crown jewels of CBBC, alongside Strange Hill High and Scream Street. We will also remember the cast who took part in this wonderful show, and the great kids who came and went to the Dumping Ground over the years. Every show present from 2013 onwards means the whole world to CBBC and to me as well - but at school, I wish I'd been happy with my friends and teachers the same way the YP are happy in Ashdene Ridge. Thank you for taking your time to read this, I appreciate that if you're a Dumping Ground fan or not.
If you're deeply saddened, watch the Newsround special 'Gone' to find out how to cope with loss.
Ashdene Ridge forever....
