With tech firm giants like Ebay and Paypal moving in, it’s not surprising job growth in Richmond increased more over the last forty years than almost any other London borough.

The latest Greater London Authority report (December 2017) revealed that the number of jobs in the borough grew by more than 50 per cent from 1971 to 2015.

Richmond is only second to Tower Hamlets, where the skyscrapers of Canary Wharf encouraged investment.

Councillor Pamela Fleming, deputy leader and cabinet member for business said: “These striking figures show how Richmond’s business sector punches above its weight when it comes to contributing to London’s economy.

“The Council is committed to providing the best environment for growing a business where our successful digital and tech sector can continue to grow, and our already strong tourism sector thrives."

“Our business support programme offers a variety of workshops and events to help nurture and grow start-ups and young businesses across Richmond.”

Richmond's Chamber of Commerce also provide events, sector specific forums, workshops, masterclasses, mentoring and networking.

Austin Casey, project director for Be Richmond said: “Richmond's diverse range of businesses has produced a strong and vibrant local economy.

"It’s a hotbed of creativity that encourages small businesses to develop and flourish alongside the global leaders in IT, creative services and consumer goods already based here."

Jobs in the IT sector grew 3.5 per cent in this 40-year period, the fourth-highest in London.

Meanwhile, the number of jobs in the arts, entertainment and recreation experienced growth of 5.5 per cent – the highest in London.

The borough’s well-known attractions such as Kew Gardens, Ham House and Hampton Court continue to lure tourists.

Across the river from Richmond, Twickenham Studios has excelled under the leadership of CEO Maria Walker, securing contracts with Netflix and working on major Hollywood titles.

Sir Vince Cable, Leader of the Liberal Democrats and MP for Twickenham, said: “It’s a great business success.

"A few years ago they were very close to closure and there was a big community campaign which I was involved in.

"It’s now absolutely booming; all the famous film stars are there and it’s bringing substantial employment to Twickenham."