Twentieth anniversary of Amelie Delagrange commemorated with new safety pilot

On Sunday, Richmond residents gathered on Twickenham Green to mark the 20th anniversary of the murder of Amelie Delagrange. The memorial event, attended by residents, council members, and representatives from various organisations, also served to showcase how we are working to tackle violence against women and girls (VAWG).

At the memorial, we announced a new pilot project to light the path across Twickenham Green, a measure designed to make residents feel safer crossing the park. This initiative, developed in collaboration with the Metropolitan Police, is a significant step forward in improving public safety in the borough. The commemorative lighting is scheduled to be installed by Autumn 2024 and will be piloted for 12 months, with a review after six months to assess its impact.

Councillor Gareth Roberts, Leader of the Council said: “The loss of Amelie Delagrange shook our community and the country, and we still feel the impact of her loss today. As result of that senseless act and all the tragedies that have occurred across the country since, we have worked tirelessly to deliver on our promise to make the borough a safer environment for everyone. That’s why I’m pleased to support this lighting project in tribute to Amelie’s memory and as a sign of our continued effort to prevent tragedies like this from happening in the future.”

The event included speeches from Councillor Roberts, White Ribbon Champion Councillor Katie Mansfield and DCI Colin Sutton, the lead investigator on Amelie’s case. The event was also marked by a performance from the Voices of Hope’s Sisterhood Choir who brought the community together in song, symbolising the borough’s resilience and hope for the future.

Recent reports have highlighted alarming statistics, including a 37% increase in recorded VAWG offences since 2018 and one in six homicides in England and Wales being linked to domestic abuse. The event underscored the broader national conversation on VAWG, with councillors emphasising the importance of the memorial and the need for continued vigilance and action. 

Councillor Katie Mansfield said: “In recent years, the borough has made strides in tackling VAWG. Richmond Council has rolled out various initiatives, including the Safe Space Marquee and bystander training programs, to support victims and educate the community. However, we must continue to raise awareness, challenge problematic views, and support each other to ensure such tragedy never happens again. This memorial is a symbol of our resilience and our commitment to a safer future by working together to make a difference."

We prioritise the safety and wellbeing of women and girls in the borough. The pilot lighting project and ongoing initiatives such as the Safe Space Marquee which operates on Friday and Saturday nights at Richmond Station, demonstrate our commitment to this cause. The community’s support and involvement remain crucial in the borough’s effort to prevent VAWG.

You can find out more about how we are tackling VAWG.