Richard Graham, former Conservative MP for Gloucester, has decided to sell his spacious city centre home while reaffirming his deep commitment to the Gloucestershire community. After serving as Gloucester’s representative at Westminster from 2010 until his retirement in July 2024, Graham has no plans to re-engage in frontline politics.
A seasoned diplomat and local figure, Graham shared with the Local Democracy Reporting Service that despite putting his city residence on the market, he plans to remain in the county that holds a special place in his heart. “Gloucestershire is very much part of my DNA,” he explained.
He reflected on his longstanding ties to the region: “I was brought up in the North Cotswolds near Moreton-in-Marsh, lived in Rodmarton by Cirencester for some years, and spent a decade in Cirencester itself. This home in Gloucester has been ours for 17 years— the longest I’ve lived anywhere.”
Looking ahead, Graham anticipates relocating nearby, keeping his lifestyle and community involvement intact. “If we move, it won’t be far. I’m still active in Gloucester, playing padel and cricket with Gloucester City teams, and I have no intention of stopping.”
Regarding his political future, Graham emphasized his firm decision to step back. “I made it clear on election night in July 2024 that I have retired from frontline politics. I’ll be 71 at the next general election, which is unlikely to come early, so it’s the sensible choice. Occasionally people suggest otherwise, but my position won’t change. That chapter has closed.”