Blackgang Chine owner Dick Dabell – who dedicated nearly seven decades to the Isle of Wight’s iconic theme park – has passed away aged 101.

Francis Richmond Dabell was the fourth-generation owner of Blackgang Chine, the UK’s oldest theme park. His great-grandfather, Alexander Dabell, founded the attraction in 1843, establishing a family legacy that has spanned more than 180 years.

Born in 1924, Dick grew up surrounded by the sights and sounds of the park. What began as a childhood playground soon became a lifelong vocation. At 16, he began working in the park’s shop before serving as an engineer in Essex during the Second World War.

In 1947, he returned to the Isle of Wight and rejoined the family business on his father’s advice – a decision that shaped the rest of his life. He went on to lead the park for almost 70 years, describing the work as ‘seven days and five nights a week’ – demanding but deeply rewarding.

It was at Blackgang Chine that he met his wife, Josephine. A trained nurse, she became a steadfast partner both in life and in the day-to-day running of the park. Together, they devoted themselves to maintaining and improving the attraction for future generations.

Under Dick’s leadership, Blackgang Chine evolved from a traditional curiosity park into a creative and imaginative theme park that continues to delight visitors today. A visit to American attractions such as Disneyland and Knott’s Berry Farm in the 1950s and 1960s inspired him to introduce themed lands and immersive storytelling experiences to the Isle of Wight.

In later years, the Dabell family also owned and operated Robin Hill Country Park near Arreton through their company, Vectis Ventures. The park was sold in 2024, allowing the family to refocus their attention and investment on Blackgang Chine – the true heart of the Dabell legacy.

Dick celebrated his 100th birthday in April 2024, surrounded by family, friends, and long-serving staff who had shared in his remarkable journey.

Blackgang Chine and the Dabell family paid tribute, saying: “We are deeply saddened to share that FRD, ‘Dick’ Dabell, beloved 4th-generation owner of Blackgang Chine, has passed away at the age of 101.

“We will forever be grateful for his creativity and his love for Blackgang Chine. A remarkable life, and an incredible legacy.”