Grace Vane Percy is a current heritage custodian and active supporter of local charities based at Island Hall, an historic grade II* listed Georgian house in Godmanchester. Since succeeding her father as custodian of Island Hall in 2019, Grace has led its ongoing restoration and preservation for future generations while opening the house and gardens to visitors, educational tours, charitable events and community activities. Her career as a professional photographer has been temporarily set aside to focus on raising her two young daughters and managing both Island Hall and the business she created, while supporting her husband, the internationally acclaimed set and costume designer, whose work takes him overseas for extended periods. Through these responsibilities, Grace risen to this challenge to demonstrate resilience, leadership and a deep commitment to preserving one of Cambridgeshire’s most significant historic homes whilst harnessing its potential as a welcoming centre for heritage, education, community engagement and charity fundraising.
Grace is proud to continue the legacy established by her parents Christopher and Lady Linda Vane Percy, who, after returning Island Hall to family ownership in 1983, made the house a focal point for charitable fundraising, community events and support for local organisations throughout Cambridgeshire. Building on those foundations, she remains committed to using Island Hall to bring people together, celebrate the built heritage and support charitable and civic initiatives. Combining creativity with a strong sense of public service, and as the mother of two young daughters, Grace is dedicated to fostering thriving communities and finding new ways to engage with future generations. She would bring warmth, integrity, sound judgement and an unwavering commitment to supporting the Lord-Lieutenant in representing the Crown and recognising the exceptional people, organisations and communities of Cambridgeshire.