Jeremy Vine led the praise to the person who has "transformed Richmond Park" over the past three years.

Mat Bonomi is head of transport for the Royal Parks and is leaving the charity this Friday (April 16).

He said: "After almost three years with the Royal Parks next Friday will be my last.

"I'm proud of what we have achieved in such a small time and I hope I leave the parks ever so slightly better than when I found them."

Following his announcement Mr Bonomi received a spate of glowing messages from Richmond residents, groups and park users.

BBC presenter Mr Vine said: "This guy has transformed Richmond Park, changing the culture of it being used as a cut-through by motor vehicles."

He added: "You've been brilliant, Mat, and it's a very tough gig. I know you have all park users, but especially those not in vehicles, close to your heart. Thank-you so much from me and my family."

Richmond Park Cyclists said: "Mat ushered in the Movement Strategy, which in turn led to the current restrictions that brought lots of ordinary people to Richmond Park on bikes, many for the first time. Sorry to see you go, buddy!"

Friends of Sheen Gate said: "Very sorry to see you go. Thank you for everything you've done for RP in particular. Each improvement has been hard-fought & you've left a fantastic legacy. Reduced through-traffic, extended trial closure of Sheen Gate & parking fees (subject to approval). What a lot in 3 years!"

Sarah Berry said: "We were so lucky to have Mat at the Royal Parks -- fighting diligently to turn them into the car free spaces we all want them to be. Thanks for everything you've done, Mat. I'm so grateful."

Martin Williamson said: "Thanks in particular for the car-free scene in your photo. It has been transformative for us. Good luck!"

More stories:

Royal Parks to defy public and introduce parking fees in Richmond Park

New code of conduct for cycling in Richmond Park praised

Patricia Reid said: "Thank you for trying. I was so hopeful for a time that you would manage to persuade Royal Parks that they were parks."

Richmond's coordinator for the London Cycling Campaign Tim Lennon said: "I say a little "thank you" every time I walk through Richmond Park, and doubly so at weekends."

Richmond Council transport chief Cllr Alexander Ehmann said: "Best of luck for the future Mat. Thank you for listening to the views of Richmond's residents. Whatever the decisions of the Royal Parks, your open-mindedness and willingness to debate was always most welcome."

The Royal Parks' Twitter said: "Big thanks for everything you've done over three packed years at the parks – we'll miss you and best of luck with your new adventures."

Simon Munk said: "It has and I hope will continue to be an absolute pleasure causing you hassle.

"And I really hope your replacement is twice as tough and resourceful and collaborative. Although I doubt that can be."

Please sign up for our weekly newsletter at the bottom of this story and follow our online newspaper on your favourite social media channel. You can find us @RichmondNubNews on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter.