Hampton Court warder hit by car yards from palace an ‘ultimate officer and gentleman’

Tributes were today being paid to a “much-loved” Hampton Court Palace staff member who died after being hit by a car yards from his workplace.

Security worker Jonathan Treleaven — described by colleagues as “the ultimate officer and gentleman” — was knocked down in Hampton Court Road. Medics battled to save him but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

It is thought that the 50-year-old may have been on duty when he was struck shortly before 12.30am on Saturday about 800 metres from the historic site. Hampton Court Palace director Nicola Andrews said he had worked there for 20 years.

She added: “Everyone at Historic Royal Palaces is devastated by the tragic loss of our colleague and friend, Jonathan, who was a much-loved member of the palace community.

“He began his career working as a conservator, using the skills gained from his BSc in furniture conservation to care for the fabric and contents of the palace — something which he cared deeply about.

“He then continued to apply the same dedication to his role as a custody warder — in which he was the ultimate officer and gentleman, diligent and meticulous in performing his duties.

“He will be enormously missed. All of our thoughts are with his family and friends at this terrible time.”

Palace workers held a private service in memory of Mr Treleaven, who lived in Surbiton, this week. A friend, who did not want to be named, described him as a “really good bloke and a lovely guy”, adding: “It’s really sad.”

Flowers and tributes were placed at the scene of the accident. One message read: “In loving memory of a great friend and colleague Jonathan. A true gentleman. I am going to miss you JT”. Another said: “To an amazing friend, colleague and custodian, you will be deeply missed and will always be in our hearts.”

A 36-year-old man was arrested on Saturday on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, drink driving and possession of class B drugs.

A woman aged 24 was arrested the same day on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. Both have been released under investigation.

Police are still investigating the circumstances of the accident. Anyone with information should call officers on 101 quoting CAD 140/10Nov.