Richard Branson has joked his grandchildren won’t be born in space and shared how “tremendously excited” he is for his daughter Holly Branson to give birth. The Virgin boss addressed the news Holly is expecting twins with husband Freddie on Wednesday afternoon, hinting that hoped to follow in the footsteps with his own grandparents in the new role.
“My grandparents were incredible people who taught us all an awful lot about having fun and doing good,” he wrote on his website. “Holly, Sam and Freddie’s grandparents have been constant sources of support, wisdom and joy to them over the years. “So we know we’ve got a tough job on our hands and will do all we can to measure up!”
Richard then addressed his latest project Virgin Galactic and confirmed the project would not launch before she became a mother. Therefore Holly unfortunately wouldn’t get to accompany on the planned trip to outer space once she takes on parenthood.“
I’m sure the twins – and many more of their generation – will get to experience space for themselves in the years to come though,” he added. “Thanks again for everyone’s well-wishes. I look forward to getting into trouble for spoiling our grandchildren! It will be well worth the tellings off to be expected. At least with twins I won’t be arguing with Joan whose turn it is to hold the baby!”
Richard is also father to Sam Branson – who will be joining the likes of Princess Beatrice, Jamie Oliver, Ed Sheeran, Alexandra Burke, and Jack Whitehall to participate in a charity fundraiser in aid of Big Change on Thursday. The challenge starts in London and ends in Switzerland, consisting of three back-to-back marathons from London to Dover, rowing the English Channel, cycling 900km to Verbier in Switzerland and hiking seven days across the Alps. “Now it’s time for us all to support Sam and the Virgin Strive Challenge, which kicks off with a marathon in London tomorrow. Go Strivers!” Richard said, ending the post.