Monty Don has joined a growing number of high-profile figures calling for an urgent investigation into the wellbeing of Sir Ranulph Fiennes. The 82-year-old adventurer, who has Parkinson's disease, is reported to have been "unlawfully deprived of his liberty" while living in care homes under a false identity, allegedly at the direction of his wife.
Ranulph, whose last public appearance was in October 2024, is said to be facing severe restrictions, including being made to change his appearance to avoid recognition and being prevented from seeing friends or relatives.
Concerns raised by Welsh care home owner
Alarm was raised after the owner of a care facility in Wales contacted police, local authorities and the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) about his welfare, according to a report by The Telegraph. His immediate family and close friends have now responded to the care watchdog's findings, demanding an urgent inquiry.
Monty Don, host of Gardeners' World, said: "My family and I have known Ran for over 40 years and he is one of the most inspirational, remarkable - and kindest - of men I have known. And of course, other than personal affection, he should be enjoying the admiration and respect of the whole country after such a remarkable life and not kept hidden away from family and friends."
He added, according to The Independent: "If anyone can be called a national treasure it is Ran and I do feel that it is vital that the OPG urgently investigates his case and all the facts can be brought to light."
Bear Grylls joins calls for investigation
Bear Grylls also added his voice to the controversy, joining those urging the police and the OPG to launch an investigation. He revealed that he and others had been "desperately trying to connect with Ran for a year now to no avail".
He went on: "Ran is a true British icon for so many around the world - a pioneer, a humble warrior and a good friend to so many of us. He never failed to support me when I needed help. Now is our time," he added. "These reports of his isolation from his loved ones and treatment in care homes are so deeply disturbing. That a hero like Ran should have to face this is very hard to read. It's past time for the Office for the Public Guardian and the police to investigate urgently. We owe it to him. Ran we are coming!"
Regulator concludes unlawful deprivation
Following an urgent review, Care Inspectorate Wales concluded that the renowned explorer was being held unlawfully. In an official statement, the regulatory body confirmed: "Currently [Sir Ranulph] is being deprived of his liberty unlawfully as there is no authorised deprivation in place which reflects the current residence and restrictions in place."
"[Sir Ranulph] is under continuous supervision and control, is not free to leave and is not able to consent to care, treatment and accommodation. As such, the provider is required to make an urgent and standard application under the deprivation of liberty safeguards as soon as practicable," they added.
Reach PLC has been unable to reach Ranulph's wife for comment. Care Inspectorate Wales has also been approached for further response.
