For many fans, the name of Ian Dury and the Blockheads will forever be associated with the frenetic rock scene of the 1970s and 1980s. However, what few fans will know is that during his lifetime he spent many happy hours with his family enjoying the peace and quiet of Richmond Park.
To mark his life, his family is donating a bench, sponsored by Warner Chappell Music, to the park, which will be placed at Poet’s Corner within the grounds of Pembroke Lodge - but this is no ordinary bench.
Designer Mil Stricevic has designed a solar powered bench, which will enable people to listen to the music of Ian Dury while they are enjoying the views of the park. By simply plugging in a standard set of headphones, visitors will be able to access 8 songs and an interview through an embedded audio soundtrack, without disturbing the tranquillity of the Park.
"Dad used to visit the park a few times a week over a period of years and it
was very special to him, he loved it. It was one of the places where he felt
he could go without being spotted all the time. There were two things,
amongst others, he was very passionate about - getting out into the
countryside and the availability of music. He would have loved the idea of a
bench where people could listen to his songs and enjoy the view." (Jemima)