2 days ago
David Beckham to guest edit Country Life
David Beckham is to guest edit Country Life.
The former England captain, who admitted to reading every edition 'cover-to-cover', will take control of the magazine for an issue in October.
The news of his editorship was announced in Wednesday's edition.
Mark Hedges, the editor-in-chief, said: 'As soon as we were introduced, David told me how much he loves Country Life.
'He reads every issue from cover to cover and it's been a great companion to him as he's developed his own life in the countryside.'
Beckham grew up in Leytonstone, London, but now lives in a £12 million countryside manor near Chipping Norton in Oxfordshire.
He has said that nature has become an important part of his life.
Previous guest editors of the magazine have included the King and the Princess Royal.
Beckham said: 'I am honoured to have been invited to guest edit an edition of a magazine that I have always admired and read.
'I am really looking forward to working with the editorial team to produce an issue that will celebrate what the countryside and the great British landscape mean to me and my family.'
Mr Hedges added: 'I'm absolutely delighted that David has agreed to guest edit the magazine, especially as it will be my 1,000th issue since I became editor.
'This one-off edition will feature David Beckham's favourite view and his best-loved recipe, as well as his rural champions and the craftsmen and women who have helped to shape his home in the Cotswolds, together with an insight into how the countryside has come to play an increasingly important role in his life.
'I know he has a deep love of the countryside, which has grown since he retired as a professional footballer.
'As a global football icon, with a passion for the countryside, his dogs, chickens, bees and his garden – notably trees, roses and vegetables – I'm excited to see what his special commemorative issue will bring.'
Country Life is a weekly magazine that celebrates nature and the English countryside and has been in print since 1897. It features articles on rural communities, hobbies and politics.
Beckham celebrated his 50th birthday this year and is expected to be given a knighthood in the King's birthday honours on Saturday.
