The Friends of Richmond Park is delighted to announce that three prominent local residents, each with a special relationship with the Park, have agreed to be Patrons of the FRP.
Renowned children’s author Dame Jacqueline Wilson DBE FRSL OBE (pictured right) is a resident of Kingston and a big fan of Richmond Park.
A former children’s laureate, Dame Jacqueline’s books have sold over 30 million copies in the UK alone and have been translated into 34 languages. Her latest book is partly set in Richmond Park. She told FRP: “I’ve enjoyed wonderful walks in Richmond Park for over 50 years…when I want to unwind after a morning’s hard work, I’ll head for the Park.”
Baroness Susan Kramer of Richmond Park is our second new Patron. She was the MP for Richmond Park from 2005 to 2010 and has a history of campaigning for local environmental issues. Liberal Democrat candidate for Mayor of London in 2000, she became the party’s Shadow Transport Secretary and led its campaign against the Heathrow expansion.
As a local MP Susan Kramer supported the Friends and the Park on many issues, and her title “of Richmond Park” reflects her long association with the local area and the Park. She went to school in Barnes and now lives there.
Sir David Attenborough OM CH CVO CBE FRS FZS FSA is our third new Patron. The world-famous broadcaster and naturalist has received many honours and awards from governments and esteemed national and international bodies. He needs no introduction as an environmental campaigner and, as a near resident, he has had a long association with Richmond Park.
As well as becoming a Patron of the Friends, Sir David has recently written the foreword to the FRP’s Guide to Richmond Park, to be published at the end of March. He said: “Richmond Park is a very special place for me. The Park’s peace and tranquillity … and its wildlife [are] exceptional”