Sir David Attenborough has named Richmond as his favourite place on the planet.

The 87-year-old, who has lived in Richmond for more than 65 years, has travelled the world during his long career but told Time Out magazine that Richmond was his favourite spot “by a long way”.

In an interview with the Richmond and Twickenham Times in May, the wildlife guru said he would never leave Richmond and enjoyed going for walks in the park.

The naturalist said it was his favourite place because he was close to friends and family and the environment suited him.

Richmond was recently voted the second happiest borough in the UK behind the City of London and according to the Office of National Statistics, people here have the highest healthy life expectancy.

Deputy leader of Richmond Council Geoffrey Samuel said Sir David Attenborough’s comments came as an absolute honour.

He said: “I am absolutely delighted.

“I think it is the wonderful combination of things we have inherited such as Kew Gardens and the river and the way, as a council, we have built on that.

“We have the best primary schools in the country, two professional theatres and a vibrant cultural and musical life.”

The renowned broadcaster is patron of the Environment Trust for Richmond, the Thames Landscape Strategy and Friends of Richmond Park.

Coun Samuel said: “One of the things we have always appreciated with him (Sir David) is his willingness to be involved in the local community.

“He hasn’t, like some famous people, disregarded his local community.

“He and his family are a big part of it and as a borough we are enormously proud.”

 

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