Richard was born in Leeds in 1957, the eldest son of a shopkeeper. He worked in the family shop at weekends and school holidays from the age of 10. This gave him what he sees as the most significant values in his life, hard work and enterprise.

After leaving Leeds Grammar School in 1975 he was awarded a scholarship to Oxford University to study Law at Keble College.

He lives principally in North London with his wife of 26 years, Jessie, and their two teenage sons, James and Daniel, and also has a property in the Watford constituency, where he spends most of his time.

Jessie helps tutor children from deprived areas in the East End. Their youngest son, Daniel, is busy studying for his GCSEs while their eldest son, James is away at university studying politics. Despite their busy lives, they always try to make time for a relaxed family dinner as often as possible.

The Harrington family have strong roots in Watford with Richard beginning his business career working at the Trewins store. Richard’s sister has lived in the area for many years. His parents moved to the area over 20 years ago and his mother still lives locally.