I have recently retired as Deputy Chief Executive of London's Royal Parks, and I know that I share a feeling with others who have been associated with the Parks for a long time. They get into your blood. Anyone who has worked in them usually ends up with a love of them, a desire to remain in touch, and a wish to see them protected and supported.
Therefore the newly formed Royal Parks Guild will be of interest to anyone who has been involved with the Parks – from staff, to apprentice. to consultant, to contractor, to volunteer and others. It aims to bring together people who have worked for, or who have been associated with, the Parks, as well as to support and promote the Parks in a manner that befits their horticultural status, unique heritage and cultural value.
Over the past 10, 20, 30 or more years there will have been many such people who left to go to different jobs or places, but who still have a close affinity with the Royal Parks, and a longing to know what is happening in them. We are now able to bring these people together – and at the same time support and promote the parks in ways that can't otherwise be done.
One example of this is the Royal Parks Apprenticeship scheme. Several years ago the last Royal Park Apprentice passed through its ranks, and it has taken a long time to restart the scheme, but it is now happening. The Royal Parks Guild will support and promote the apprenticeship scheme, and Guild members can actively share knowledge with the training officers and apprentices themselves.
The Royal Parks Guild, although run by dedicated and knowledgeable volunteers, operates fully with the blessing of the Royal Parks Agency, and we are in regular contact with the Royal Parks Foundation as well as Historic Royal Palaces As a member of the Royal Parks Guild you will be able to share in the future of our fabulous Royal Parks, and meet up with some old colleagues at the same time Our aim is a serious one – that of promoting horticultural excellence and friendship in
Introduction from Mike Fitt - Chairman, The Royal Parks Guild