We are delighted to announce that Richard Wilson OBE has joined us as an Argdowan Hospice Patron.

‘Don’t believe it?’

Here is a message from Mr Wilson regarding his new role:

“I am truly honoured and delighted to become an official patron of Ardgowan Hospice.

As someone born in Greenock, I feel a deep personal connection to the community the Hospice serves. Ardgowan Hospice provides outstanding care, compassion, and support to individuals and families facing life-limiting illness, and its role in the local area is both vital and inspiring.

To be able to support such a remarkable organisation, in the town of my birth, is a privilege. I look forward to helping raise awareness of the Hospice’s work and championing its mission in any way I can.

With warmest regards,

Richard Wilson OBE”

Colette Cameron, Marketing and Communications Manager at Ardgowan Hospice, said:

“We are absolutely delighted to have Scottish actor Richard Wilson OBE offer to become a patron of Ardgowan Hospice. Richard is excited to be involved, and his support means a great deal to us.

This new relationship is made even more special by the personal connection—his cousin, John Wilson, is a valued member of our Board of Trustees and previously volunteered as a driver for the hospice. We’re very much looking forward to welcoming Richard to the hospice when he is next in Scotland.”

Richard Wilson OBE (born Iain Carmichael Wilson on 9 July 1936 in Greenock, Scotland) is a distinguished Scottish actor, theatre director, and broadcaster. Trained originally in science, he worked as a lab technician and served in the Royal Army Medical Corps in Singapore before switching careers at age 27 to study at RADA, graduating in 1965.

He rose to fame with his iconic portrayal of Victor Meldrew in the BBC sitcom One Foot in the Grave (1990–2000), winning two BAFTAs and a British Comedy Award. Later, he endeared viewers as Gaius, the wise court physician in Merlin (2008–2012).

Away from the screen, Wilson has had a prolific stage career with the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre, and has received recognition both as an actor and director. He was appointed OBE in 1994 for services to drama and served as Rector of the University of Glasgow (1996–1999).