Timeless Raymond Briggs’ book re-released to support 3 charities

Republished this autumn, the early illustrated hardback has been rediscovered by Manderley Press. The charming 1960s story is set in and inspired by Briggs’ childhood home in Wimbledon. The royalties will be donated to Parkinson’s UK, Rethink Mental Illness and Blood Cancer UK.

Best known for classic children’s stories including The Snowman, Father Christmas and Fungus The Bogeyman, Raymond was a lifelong supporter and member of the 3 charities until he died in 2022. We were included in his legacy in memory of his long-term partner, Liz, who developed Parkinson’s towards the end of her life. A much-loved teacher, mum and grannie, Liz was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in her early 70s and died in 2015. Raymond and Liz’s family found our information and support invaluable, both through Liz’s illness, and when Raymond himself developed Parkinson’s.

Paul Jackson-Clark, Director of Fundraising and Experience at Parkinson's UK, said:

"Raymond’s work has touched the hearts of so many and is a cherished part of countless people’s formative years. We are deeply honoured to be one of the charities benefiting from his extraordinary legacy. By supporting Parkinson’s UK through the release of this stunning new edition of The Strange House, Raymond’s generosity will continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of those affected by Parkinson’s.

"Parkinson’s affects not just the individual diagnosed, but their entire family. Raymond and his family found our information and support invaluable, both during Liz’s journey with Parkinson’s and later when Raymond himself developed the condition. We are profoundly grateful to the Briggs family for their ongoing partnership and commitment to ensuring Raymond’s legacy continues to make a difference. Together, we will honour his memory by providing vital support to everyone affected by Parkinson’s, so that no one has to face the condition alone."