Camden News - by CHARLOTTE CHAMBERS Published: 18 September 2008
Marion Kamlish and Hero Granger-Taylor
Gord knows Ramsay has a lot to thank these lasses for
GORDON Ramsey has a lot to thank these two women for. For without Marion Kamlish and Hero Granger-Taylor and the rest of the Camden Civic Society, his new boutique hotel – launched last night (Wednesday) in Parkway – would never have been even a twinkle in the Scotsman’s eye.
For 22 years the Grade II listed building in Parkway sat empty, save for the pigeons living in the roof.
Indeed, if it wasn’t for the tireless research of Ms Kamlish, the impressive Regent’s Park building wouldn’t have been listed or even recognised as the work of John Nash. “I wrote a letter to the Department of Culture, Media and Sport, asking them for it to be listed, and in September 2000 I got a letter from them saying it had,” said Ms Kamlish, brimming with joy at its once-unthinkable happy ending. Who would have thought it would end up so posh?”
A drinks reception is being thrown in honour of the Civic Society tonight (Thursday) – proving even top chefs know which side their bread is buttered on.