It is with deep sadness and regret London Playing Fields Foundation learnt of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Our thoughts, prayers and sympathies are with the Royal Family at this sorrowful time for them.
Virtually since its formation, the Foundation has enjoyed the patronage of the Royal Family. Our first President was George, Duke of York, later to become Prince of Wales and in 1909, with his wife Princess Mary, he honoured us by opening the new Fairlop Oak Playing Field. In 1910, on succeeding to the throne as George V, he, with Queen Mary, became our joint Patrons. On his death in 1936 Queen Mary continued as Patron until her own death in 1953.
Our royal connection was re-established in 1963 when the late Queen’s uncle, Henry, Duke of Gloucester, became our Patron, a position held since 1974 by his son, Richard, the current Duke.
The Foundation has benefitted greatly from this royal support exemplifying the selfless devotion to duty and service embodied in the life of Queen Elizabeth II.
