A world-renowned art collector killed after being knocked down by a bus in Oxford Street had devoted herself to raising money for children’s charities following her daughter’s suicide, a close friend revealed today.
Baroness Marion Lambert was on her way to meet renowned auctioneer and art dealer Simon de Pury to discuss her latest plans to raise money for young Syrian refugees when she was knocked down on Tuesday May 24.
The 73-year-old, who died in hospital on Saturday, raised millions for charity, with the NSPCC one of the major beneficiaries.
Her daughter Philippine took her own life in 1997 aged 20.
Swiss police investigated allegations of sexual abuse made by Philippine against a family friend in her suicide note, but after a protracted legal battle the public prosecutor in Geneva decided there was insufficient evidence for a criminal prosecution.
Mr de Pury, a friend of more than 25 years, said the death of Baroness Lambert’s daughter had been “heartbreaking” for her family and added to their desire to help vulnerable children.
He said: “I don’t think anyone can ever get closure on losing a child. It was the worst thing that can happen to anyone. She did so much to raise money for the NSPCC and other charities after.”
He added: “Philanthropic issues were always on her agenda and I hope we will be able to continue some of her plans in her honour.”
Mr de Pury also paid tribute to his “extremely loyal” friend.
“I was struck by her enthusiasm and passion for art and her exceptional tastes.”
Her son Henri, 37, a venture capitalist who lives in Earl’s Court, was “devastated” by her death, Mr de Pury said. Mr Lambert was too upset to speak last night.
Gordon Watson, art collector and presenter of BBC programme The Extraordinary Collector, which featured the sale of more than 300 pieces from her collection last month, also paid tribute to her.
He said: “Her energy was legendary and my world will be a much blander, more sedate place without her.”
Police are investigating the crash in which she died, where she was hit by a double-decker 73 bus at about 4.45pm. The bus driver stopped at the scene and has not been arrested.
