Park Life

John Bartram started life as an apprentice blacksmith for Richmond council in 1970 and two years later joined their parks department where he stayed for eight years working in a tree unit. He began his career as a gamekeeper in 1980 with Kew Gardens, where he met his wife, Maggie, a wildlife artist, who he married in 1988. He took on the same role for Richmond Park in 1986, remaining in the post for thirty years, during which time his job title was changed to Senior Wildlife Officer. John and Maggie lived in Kingston Gate Lodge in Richmond Park before moving to Walton on Thames on his retirement in 2016. For relaxation he enjoys bird watching with Maggie, fishing, tending his allotment, and playing bowls.John Karter is a former writer for The Sunday Times, The Times, and The Independent, and the author of five published non-fiction books: Introducing Psychology of Relationships, The Love Delusion, On Training to be a Therapist, Frankie Dettori - the Illustrated Biography, and Lester - Return of a Legend, as well as a novella, The Profit. As an avid cyclist, walker and nature lover, Karter considers nearby Richmond Park to be his second home. He wrote the text for Richmond Park and edited the Guide to Richmond Park. He has contributed to various other books and publications and works as volunteer writer and editor for RNIB (Royal National Institute for Blind People). He is also a qualified psychotherapist.