The Royal Parks has issued a stark warning after 'shocking and extremely concerning' footage showed adults and children crowding and stroking deer in Richmond Park. Park manager Paul Richards stressed that the red and fallow deer are 'wild, powerful animals' and visitors must stay at least 50 metres away at all times. Richmond Park, spanning 2,500 acres, is a haven for wildlife, but the deer can be 'quick to react' and pose serious risks.
Footage Shows Dangerous Behaviour
Footage shared on social media over the weekend depicted a group of adults and young children surrounding deer, with children touching and stroking the animals. Richards said: 'We are shocked and extremely concerned by footage... This deeply irresponsible behaviour creates a serious risk of a tragic accident resulting in life-changing injuries or, in the worst case, a fatal incident.' Stags can weigh over 25 stone and run at speeds of up to 30 miles per hour, making them highly dangerous if provoked.
Urgent Safety Advice Issued
Parents and carers are urged to keep children 'well away from the deer at all times' and never allow them to approach or interact with the animals. Richards added: 'Visitors should always stay at least 50 metres away – or further if the deer are moving – and never approach them for photographs or selfies. The deer are one of the park’s most iconic features. But please – keep yourself, your families, and others safe, by giving deer the space they need.'
Concerns Over Policing Cuts
The Friends of Richmond Park expressed sadness over the incident. Amanda Boardman, who shared the video on X, said she had 'never seen it this bad' and called for the reinstatement of the dedicated Royal Parks Police unit. The Met Police disbanded the unit in 2025 due to a £260 million budget hole. Richmond Council Leader Gareth Roberts criticised the decision, telling the Local Democracy Service: 'At a time when residents are already concerned about the visibility of policing, this decision will do nothing to reassure them. The loss of the specialist policing team would leave them more vulnerable to crime and antisocial behaviour. This is a huge mistake.'
Impact on Local Policing
Roberts noted that without the Royal Parks Police, responsibility for the vast open spaces falls to overstretched local officers already managing high demand elsewhere. 'The Royal Parks Police provide a vital service, ensuring our parks remain safe and well-managed. Their work includes enforcing park regulations and responding to incidents quickly and effectively. Losing this specialist team places an additional burden on already overstretched local policing resources and risks leaving our parks unprotected.'
