Richmond Park News: 9 October 2026
POPPY FACTORY 100TH ANNIVERSARY
The Poppy Factory, situated in Richmond Hill, celebrated its 100th anniversary with an afternoon tea and speeches, which I was honoured to attend.
There were many thoughtful speeches about the Poppy Factory and its history, but the two most poignant speeches were made by two ex-servicemen who had been supported by the Poppy Factory in recent years.
It was inspiring to hear about the brilliant work the organisation has been carrying out for over 100 years, and how they support people not only to find a fulfilling life in the community after service, but also how the people they help often go on to support other ex-service personnel.
OPENING OF NEW LIBRARY AT EAST SHEEN PRIMARY SCHOOL
It is the National Year of Reading, and I was privileged to be invited to cut the ribbon as East Sheen Primary opened its two new libraries, which gives current and future pupils a fantastic range of books to read, and a beautiful space to enjoy reading.
I really enjoyed speaking to the student librarians and house captains, hearing what their favourite books are, and how they had been involved in designing the new libraries.
This was an excellent example of the community coming together, with fundraising by the PTA, and collaboration from parents, teachers, pupils, and local businesses to create a real community asset.
FUTURE OF A THIRD RUNWAY AT HEATHROW AIRPORT
The Prime Minister made headlines during the Labour Party Conference following his refusal to support a third runway at Heathrow Airport. Meanwhile, the Conservatives have made their position clear, as Kemi Badenoch rallied in favour of expansion during her Conference speech.
The Climate Change Committee recently announced the obvious: a third runway at Heathrow is incompatible with the UK’s Net Zero targets, leaving the Prime Minister with a clear choice: pursue Heathrow expansion or our environmental targets.
The Prime Minister must be unequivocal in his opposition to a third runway, and I have written to the Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander MP, to ask for clarity on the government’s position. You can view this letter by clicking here.
RICHMOND BOROUGH VOLUNTARY SECTOR MEETING
On Monday, I attended York House in Twickenham to meet with a number of volunteer groups operating in Richmond Borough which help support our green spaces and vulnerable residents.
Volunteers are sometimes underappreciated by the wider population, but the residents and areas they serve would sorely miss their work if they ceased to operate. Many of the volunteers spend hours and hours each week supporting those who are struggling, and their work is invaluable.
If you would like to learn more about the work of some of these groups in Richmond Borough, you can do so by clicking here.
COMMUNITY NEWS
BARNES AUTUMN FAYRE
The Barnes Autumn Fayre returns on Saturday 17 October between 10:00 and 16:00.
The Fayre takes place on Vine Road Recreation Ground, with activities including nature walks, craft, apple pressing, pumpkin decoration and a cooker competition, while marketplace stalls and a pizza van will be serving refreshments.
If you want to learn more about the Fayre, please click here.
PALEWELL COMMON LITTER-PICK
This Sunday, 11 October, between 9:30-11:00, Habitats and Heritage will be out on Palewell Common alongside volunteers to pick-up litter in the area.
At the recent Sheen Common litter pick, 30 people volunteered their time to take part, and the Common was spotless following their hard work.
Habitats and Heritage hope for a repeat of these numbers, and you can find out more about the community litter pick by clicking here.
