The Aristo News

Lord Bath's Tenant Poisoned

2009-10-09T01:38:00.001+01:00

Alexander George Thynn, 7th Marquess of Bath (also known as Lord Bath) should keep a closer eye on his tenants, rather than his "wifelets".

Ian Windel, a tenanted farmer on Lord Bath's Longleat Estate, died after being poisoned by a faulty heater on February 4, 2009. The source of the poisoning is believed to come from blocked pipes within the Rayburn heating device. Mr. Windel's son has described the cottage as "damp and cold" with broken windows that took "ages to get fixed." It's widely believed that Lord Bath didn't visit the cottage until Mr. Windel's death.

It seems to us that the safety of your tenants (who pay you to live on your land) should be a priority. To add insult to injury, Lord Bath is worth an estimated ₤157 million. If you're too busy to tend to these lowly matters, then hire someone to do so. Carelessness is no excuse for someone else's death.

The inquest into this matter continues.

As always, we'll keep you posted.

A Grand Pile

2009-10-09T01:19:00.000+01:00

Imagine that you’re next in line to inherit the family seat. It’s something you’ve dreamt about for years and now that day has finally arrived. Now, imagine your horror when you find out that twenty of the grand estate’s thirty rooms need to be torn out and refurbished, the staff hasn’t been paid in three months, and the great pile costs ₤10,000 a month to run. Ah, such is the plight of families around Europe each and every year.

The Aristo News has covered the different issues facing those who inherit these massive homes and are faced with the cold, stark reality of upkeep, maintenance, budgeting, and doing whatever they can to keep from selling the family silver to keep the lights on. During the last few weeks, we’ve heard of many tales of people who have gone to great lengths to keep their elaborate homes open without revealing their true financial woes.

As we’ve reported before, the Earl of Devon has done everything but sell Powderham Castle to keep up with the costs of running his ancestral seat. Oh sure, English aristocrats have allowed costume dramas on their grounds for decades, while The Times of London recently reported that some owners of these palatial country palaces are allowing sex parties to take place in their environs while wedding guests sip champagne in the south wing.

We’re all for doing whatever it takes to keep up appearances, but we’ve been tipped off to some aristo’s who have had tough decisions to make long before the current recession took place:

-A scion to a lesser known English family once informed us that he & his siblings had to turn most of their land into a golf course to keep the family estate in their hands. While we hear the business is going quite well, they were literally forced into this decision.

-A world famous aristo family sold their London home to another wealthy world famous family to maintain some control over their vast holdings. The aristo family couldn’t keep up with the pad after World War II, which forced them to sell. However, they are still permitted to use the abode.

It seems to us that this problem may never go away, unless the heirs decide to sell their ancestral homes and live in alternate accommodations. But we know all too well that this can trigger penalties within the UK, which is what the heirs always try to avoid.

Maybe there isn’t a solution.

Maybe the heirs should give their ancestral homes to The National Trust and call it a day. Or, we can hope that they will want to keep a piece of their family history in family hands, which – in that case – will keep this blog alive for years to come. Now that’s what we call an even exchange.

Aristo "Not-So" Blind Item

2009-10-08T21:25:00.000+01:00

You may get this one, but here it is...

Which world famous aristo needs to watch her finances? Her former in-laws have provided her no assistance at all (word is they can't stand her) and the press is having a field day with her misfortune. Once you become accustomed to a certain lifestyle, it's hard to give it up. And in her case, she's had to do more work than some to keep up appearances...

Here It Is...

2009-10-08T20:37:00.001+01:00

Will Lady V's new venture get off the ground or go up in smoke?
Lady V's new electronic cigarette is now available. While we thought it was a pipe dream, it's a reality.
Well, if you want to know all about it (or purchase one), click here.
Maybe we'll put it on our Christmas list...

Do You Know These Men?

2009-10-08T20:07:00.000+01:00

Do you know the men in this photo?
If not, you need to read this blog more often! For the wonderful story, click here.

Photo by Jonathan Becker

Aristo News Blind Item

2009-10-08T19:51:00.000+01:00

A reversal of fortune?
Which English aristo may finally be on the real road to recovery?
We've heard that his personal ethics have been hurting the family name, but a last minute fire sale may be the answer to all of his problems.
We can't say more, but let's say that these issues have been trailing him for a long while...

Belgian Aristocrat Opens Europalia China

2009-10-08T19:45:00.002+01:00

Which Belgian aristocrat opened Europalia China today?
Count Jacobs de Hagen (known as Georges Jacobs, right) opened announced today's event open in the presence of the King and Queen of Belgians, Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping, and other members of the Belgian royal family.
The art festival will close on February 14, 2010.

Aristo News Blind Item

2009-09-18T22:47:00.003+01:00

Which aristo couple may very well call it quits?

Maybe all fairy tales don't end with happily ever after, but with the handover of a very large settlement.

Lady V's New Venture

2009-09-18T22:41:00.002+01:00

Lucky us.
We've heard that Lady Victoria Hervey wants to sell some sort of electric cigarette lighter. Is this exactly practical?
But the main selling point is that it'll bear her family crest. Ooo...

Come to think of it, how will she promote this new,"useful" product? It's not as if advertising for cigarettes is allowed in the UK or the US. Good luck with that!
Let's just hope this goes better than her last venture...
More on that later...

News on the go!

2009-09-18T19:18:00.002+01:00

We're currently updating the site from our Blackberry on the German autobahn! We will post pics once we have our are at the hotel!
Always,
The Aristo News

Germany's Rocking Aristo

2009-09-18T19:14:00.004+01:00

THE NEW YORK TIMES has run a wonderful article about the rock loving German aristocratic baron, Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg.
We posted a story on Germany's economic minister on July 10, 2009! Looks like we were ahead of the curve!

Perhaps the good baron could teach the world's politicans that a killer personality is worth its weight in free press!
To read the TIMES' story, click here.

Just In!!! Aristocrat Accused Of Stealing £1.6 MILLION!!!

2009-09-16T12:06:00.002+01:00

Aristocrat Jonathan Davies, the grandson of the 1st Lord Davies, has been accused of stealing £1.6 million from his family charity! Jonathan was confronted about this years ago, but he lied to cover his tracks. He has been using the money to fund his own lavish lifestyle---does that count as charity?
We would say that we're surprised, however in these tough times nothing shocks us. It is said that Jonathan will have to repay about £200,000. Now that's what we call getting off easy!

September's Eligible Aristo Bachelor

2009-09-15T19:22:00.002+01:00

Who's our bachelor of September?
Hint: He attended the Oundle School.
Find out after the jump!

Count Louis-Marie de Castelbajac!

The uber-hunk is reportedly dating singer Dita Von Teese, who's the ex-wife of singer Marilyn Manson.

Quick Facts:
He's French.
His father is the fashion designer Jean-Charles de Castelbajac.
He was educated at Oundle School in England.
He's an actor & goes by the stage name: Kallean de Castelbajac.

To see his IMDb page, click here.
If you have any tips on Louis-Marie, send us an e-mail at aristotips@gmail.com

Eco-Friendly Viscount Arrested!

2009-09-15T18:43:00.002+01:00

Which viscount was arrested at an Oxford airport?

Fred Lambton, Viscount Lambton, heir to the 7th Earl of Durham, has been arrested at London Oxford Airport in Kidlington. He (and another female protester) gained access to the airport and draped a banner over an airplane to voice their opposition to the airport expansion. After their arrest, Viscount Lambton & the female protester were held on suspicion of trespassing; bother parties were bailed out.

Fred, who is an eco-warrior, performed a similar stunt in Sienna, Italy last year.

We applaud him because it's hard to find a person with a real passion that isn't fueled by a publicist.

Just In! Earl of Snowdown Replies!

2009-09-15T18:09:00.001+01:00

The Daily Mail has posted a response to Nicky Haslam's reclaims that he had an affair with the Earl of Snowdon. The quote is after the jump.
Earl of Snowdon:

As to Haslam's claims, Princess Margaret's former husband was untroubled. 'Good God, why should I be upset?' he told a pal. 'Nicky's got a book out and he has got to sell it. I really don't mind a bit.'
Of Haslam, who is godfather to his grandson Rex, the son of his daughter Lady Frances, Snowdon adds: 'I am calling him Nicky Hasbeen.'

Well, it seems like Lord Snowdon has put Mr. Haslam in his place!

To read the full story, click here.

Duchess of Norfolk Goes Stateside

2009-09-14T19:14:00.001+01:00

Her Grace The Duchess of Norfolk is in Philadelphia. Why?
Her Grace is in Philadelphia a Trustee of Depaul International, will dedicate a US branch called Depaul House USA. This home will house twenty-five homeless men in the Philadelphia area.

We hope she has fun on her trip. Maybe she will meet Boris Johnson in New York City for a good old pint... Hey, it's only a helicopter ride away!

Just In! Which Aristo Claims To Have Had An Affair With Earl of Snowdon?

2009-09-13T01:45:00.009+01:00

How we love a scandal!

Which aristo claims to have had an affair with the Earl of Snowdon a year before his marriage to Princess Margaret?

Society maven Nicky Haslam (right), the great-grandson of the 7th Earl of Bessborough!

To read this hot piece, click here.

Of course, Lord Snowdon denies the claims.

But anything's possible, right? We sure hope so!

If you have any tips, e-mail us at aristotips@gmail.com

Tell Us What You Think

2009-09-12T23:51:00.003+01:00

Dearest Readers,

As you know, without you we're nothing!

Why not send us a quick e-mail (aristotips@gmail.com) to let us know what you think. Tell us what you think about the content, website, etc. and we'll take it all on board.

Remember to keep those great tips coming!

Always,

The Aristo News

Heir To The 6th Baron Hindlip Fined For Smuggling Drugs In A Condom

2009-09-12T22:22:00.004+01:00

Yes, you read the headline correctly.

Apparently, the future 7th Baron Hindlip, The Honorable Henry William Allsopp, was found guilty of trying to smuggle 16.39 grams of cannabis resin into the Bermuda. After being stopped by customs officials at the airport in Bermuda, Henry was discovered to a condom tied to his penis which contained the cannabis resin. Henry was fined $3,000 for his offense.

What a dumb ass. But hey, we'll give him points for originality. Hey, at least he didn't try to smuggle it into the American Embassy. Now that's stupid.

Lord Frederick Windsor Finally Weds At Hampton Court Palace

2009-09-12T21:08:00.004+01:00

Today, Lord Frederick Windsor, the son of the Prince of Kent, married Sophie Winkleman at Hampton Court Palace's Chapel Royal. Congratulations! Sophie will now be styled as The Lady Frederick Windsor.

We've been hearing that the wedding has been fraught with drama including (but not limited to) the "unrefined" guest list, wedding gift list, and the absence of senior members of the royal family. Was Princess Pushy a reason? She isn't exactly a favorite amongst her extended family. Thankfully, the couple turned down a six figure sum to have their wedding pictures published in a tacky glossy magazine. It seems that Lord Frederick erred on the side of caution after the last royal wedding...

As many senior member of the royal family weren't in attendance, but some of the distinguished guests included: Princess Eugenie, Lady Annabel Goldsmith, and Lady Gabriella Windsor.

The BBC is reporting that the couple will leave the UK tomorrow for their new life in Los Angeles. We hope the couple will have a lifetime of happiness, but with Princess Pushy as a mother-in-law, we can see why Sophia & Freddie are moving 6,000 miles away...

Trust Me... He's Not That Kind of Dealer

2009-08-25T22:03:00.005+01:00

Blink and you missed her!

Aristocratic interior designer, Lady Caroline Percy, daughter of the Duke of Northumberland, appeared on the new BBC "lifestyle"...or "entertainment"...program, TRUST ME, I'M A DEALER last night (August 25, 2009). She didn't deal with the kind of dealer the Honourable Nicholas Knatchbull is use to, but the sort you'd find at Sotheby's or Christie's. Lady Caroline bought the bust of a Roman emperor from the show host, Paul Martin, which she will most likely sell on to one of her aristocratic interior design clients.

To catch her brief appearance, check out the BBC iPlayer. If you don't live in the UK, you're not missing much...

Why, Oh Why?

2009-08-24T18:41:00.004+01:00

The Telegraph is reporting that Lady Kitty Spencer, the daughter of the 8th Earl Spencer, wants to be known as a political Carrie Bradshaw. She wants to talk about serious "things". Lucky us. Maybe she'll write a column for the Spectator about the current state of socioeconomic matters between the different class structures within the United Kingdom. It looks like we've given her her first topic.

Just remember, Carrie Bradshaw was a fictional character, Kitty...

The Talented Nat Rothschild

2009-08-24T18:20:00.003+01:00

Our aristo bachelor of August, the Honourable Nathaniel Rothschild, is the topic of a great article in the Independent. He's a true man of many colors with unlimited wealth, power and privilege. He's also rumored to be dating Princess Florence von Preussen. Very nice.

To read the story, click here.

Send any tips to aristotips@gmail.com.

Pay Up or Move On...

2009-08-24T17:52:00.005+01:00

West Lothian County is in a tizzy over a building owned by Malcolm Harry Erskine, 17th Earl of Buchan. Apparently, a building that has been sitting empty of nearly a decade after once housing a primary school. The local council want to sell the building for ₤140,000 to be used as a leisure center and nursery. However, when the earl's family allowed the land to be built upon more than one hundred years ago, there was a stipulation that it could only be used for educational purposes. In order to change this condition, the earl wants ₤70,000. The council is furious, but it is his land. Either pay up or forget it. Such is life, right?

Note: The picture is not the building in question. Always, The Aristo News.

A Fairy Tale Wedding...On a Budget?

2009-08-24T17:11:00.005+01:00

The Aristo News has been following the exploits of Lord Frederick Windsor, who we consider the ultimate aristo: He's a the son of the Prince of Kent & well known amongst his aristocratic peers. Despite being in line for the British throne, the lord isn't immune to the many opinions concerning his upcoming wedding to actress Sophie Winkleman. Rumor has it that the couple will have a "budget" reception at Hampton Court Palace's Great Hall, although senior members of the royal family want it to be a "mature" affair.

It seems the wedding guests will consists of young people and it isn't thrilling the royal family. If Lord Frederick were styled as a member of the royal family, we would understand if they might have some say. However, he's styled as an aristocrat who's an extended member of the regal family. Lord Frederick is already quitting the UK to work full time & be supportive of his soon-to-be-wife's acting career. Upon their marriage, Sophie will be known as Lady Frederick Windsor.

Let's just hope he doesn't sell pictures of his wedding to a tacky magazine. We all know which extended member of the royal family has already done that...

Brother, Can You Spare a Liver Snap?

2009-08-12T19:57:00.007+01:00

Some people donate to charity, others leave millions of pounds to their pets.

Gunther, III, an Alsatian, who recently died left ₤224.9 million to his heir, Gunther, IV. Oh, the two Gunther's are dogs. Gunther, III inherited his wealth from the German aristocrat, Countess Carlotta Liebenstein upon her death in 1991. Gunther, IV has it good: He has his own personal maid, custom built swimming pool, and chauffeur driven limousine.

Not to be outdone, Kalu, a chimpanzee, inherited ₤53 million from Patricia O'Neill, daughter of the Countess of Kenmore.

We're not one to judge, but seriously?

To read the full story, click here.

The Fabulous Misadventures of Earl Spencer

2009-08-09T12:33:00.003+01:00

To read a great piece on the 9th Earl Spencer (better known as Diana's bitter brother), click here.

Just in! Aristo Caught in Drug Scandal

2009-08-09T11:36:00.004+01:00

How we love a scandal...

The Honourable Nicholas Knatchbull (right), the godson of Prince Charles, has been caught on tape smoking a crack pipe. Classy.

The great-grandson of Earl Mountbatten is an extended member of the British royal family, but addiction knows no social divisions. Nicholas' parents, the 8th Baron Brabourne and Lady Brabourne, are close friends of Prince Charles. It'll be interesting to see how this story develops.

Nicholas stands to inherit ₤100 million. Let's just hope he doesn't blow it on crack and heroin. Now that would be a waste.

To read the full story, click here.

The Right to Bear Titles

2009-08-09T11:11:00.004+01:00

Should women be allowed to inherit aristocrat titles? The Aristo News discussed this topic on July 10 in an article entitled The Aristocracy in the 21st Century. We've just learned that the same debate is alive within the hallowed halls of the Spanish aristocracy.

There has been a change to Spanish law that will now allow elder sisters to inherit the family title, in place of her younger brothers. However, some people within this Spanish aristocracy fear that this will allow older sisters to retroactively claim titles already held by their younger brothers, uncles, etc. According to The Irish Times more than 1,000 families are worried about the repercussions of retroactive claims on noble titles held by the younger men in these aristocratic families, which is why they're demanding a change to the law.

But why is this an issue now? Spain has had absolute and equal cognatic primogeniture since 2006.

We at The Aristo News are strong supporters of equality. We think that the current holders should be allowed to retain their titles, but on the death of present holder, the eldest child (or living relative) should inherit the title. Simple, right?

Yet it's interesting to note that the Spanish monarchy still practices male preference primogeniture. How can the King of Spain have one set of rules for the noble families and another for himself? If change is supposed to start at the top, maybe this situation wouldn't be such a mess now.

August's Eligible Aristo Bachelor

2009-08-07T18:10:00.004+01:00

Our eligible aristo bachelor is:

The Honourable Nathaniel Rothschild.

Quick fact:
He is heir to the 4th Baron Rothschild & a member of the storied Rothschild banking dynasty.
Nathaniel is better known as "Nat".
The Sunday Times Rich List places his net worth at ₤330 million.
The thirty-eight year old is the co-chairman of Atticus Capital, a New York based hedge fund.
Nat has homes in New York, London, Moscow, Switzerland, and Corfu.

Highclere Castle is Falling Down

2009-08-06T18:14:00.003+01:00

...and the trend continues...

The Daily Mail is reporting that Highclere Castle (right), the ancestral home of the Earl's of Carnarvon, is in a dilapidated, uninhabitable state. Apparently, it will cost ₤1.8 million to immediately repair the 50 downtrodden rotting rooms, and a further ₤12 million to repair outbuildings, grounds, and the like. The 8th Earl, George Reginald Oliver Molyneux Herbert, blames his ancestors for not keeping up the castle prior to his inheritance.

Recently, the 8th Earl (who lives in a cottage on the estate with his wife and children) applied for permission to build a housing estate on the 5,000 acre estate. Needless to say, the decision has caused horror in some circles.

As The Aristo News has reported before, these problems are not unique to any one aristocrat. Everyone is feeling the pinch in these economic times...

However, if he can't afford to keep up the estate, maybe he should ask the Queen for a loan. After all, she and the late 7th Earl were close friends. If you don't ask, you don't get, right?

Earl of Southesk Adds Gun to Museum Collection

2009-08-03T17:02:00.004+01:00

The 13th Earl of Southesk, David Carnegie, has auctioned off family heirlooms from the 9th Earl of Southesk in order to buy back a significant portion of his ancestral home, Kinnaird Castle (right) in Scotland. Apparently, the Royal Alberta Museum in Edmonton, Canada, has purchased aboriginal artifacts from the earl for ₤1.1 million at a Sotheby's auction. Recently, the earl donated a 1852 Purdey and Sons black powder rifle to the museum's Southesk Collection.

The 13th Earl is currently the heir to the current Duke of Fife.

The Glorious Earl of March

2009-08-03T16:51:00.002+01:00

Since The Aristo News is committed to bringing you all of the latest news of the aristocrats of today, we thought you might like this great profile on the current Earl of March.

This is a guy who clearly knows the real financial demands of running his family home as a business and has bucked the financial woes that plague his colleagues. Maybe the earl should give seminars on fiscal responsibility amongst the aristocracy. It only goes to show that sometimes it's better to go against the conventional way of thinking...

We've found it quite interesting to learn that it costs ₤2 million to run the Earl of March's ancestral seat, Goodwood House. No wonder so many aristocrats are feeling the pinch in these tough economic times.

To read the full story, click here.

Money Can't Retain Your Title

2009-08-03T16:36:00.003+01:00

The Aristo News has always stated for a while that financial woes are permeating all aspects of aristocratic life. The 11th Baronet of Wolseley has been forced out of his ancestral seat, the Earl of Devon is selling everything he can & the Marquees of Devonshire just raised ₤35,000 at a Sotheby's sale.

Well, now Chris Eubank's, the boxer who purchased the Lordship of the Manor of Brighton, is being forced to sell his title. Why? He's bankrupt. Actually, he's been bankrupt since 2005, but now he's being forced to sell property, assets and the title he purchased for ₤45,000. It is now on sale for ₤35,000. Ouch. If the title can't be sold, it will be auctioned to the highest bidder by the Manorial Society of Great Britain.

If you have the cash, click here to learn more about the sale of the title.

Have You Paid for that Sandwich?

2009-08-03T16:05:00.006+01:00

Neil Corall, the owner of a sandwich shop, has been forced to change the name of his shop from Earl of Sandwich to E.A.R.L on the Green. Why? The 11th Earl of Sandwich (right) balked after learning that the small shop was named after his growing chain of sandwich shops located in the USA. It seems that 11th Earl didn't want there to be any confusion between his chain and Mr. Corall's, thus the legal action. Mr. Corall did change the name of his shop, but now the 11th Earl wants him to pay his legal fees (which total ₤2,000), along with a ₤1,500 goodwill payment. Needless to say, Mr. Corall has said he will not pay the goodwill payment & has yet to pay the legal fees.

The Aristo News is a bit surprised by the 11th Earl's legal proceedings, although the Earl's representatives did note that he intends to open shops in the UK and Europe. Fair enough, but is bullying a shop owner the way to create goodwill for your brand? We think not.

To check out the 11th Earl's shop, click here. (Ironically, this story isn't in the press section of the website...)
To contact Neil Corall's shop, call 01224 587259.

Just In! Lord Milo Douglas Found Dead

2009-08-03T00:33:00.002+01:00

The Aristo News has just learned that Lord Milo Douglas, second in line to the Marquess of Queensberry, has been found dead. It is said that his body was found on the pavement outside of a nine-story council block building. His father, the 12th Marquees of Queenberry has said that his son suffered from bi-polar disorder. Our thoughts are with the Marquees and his family during this time.

To read the full story, click here.

Lock Up Your Stately Homes!

2009-07-28T23:55:00.003+01:00

The 8th Viscount Gage's (right) ancestral home, Firle Place, has been the subject of theft to the tune of ₤1 million. Meanwhile, the 7th Viscount Hampden's home, Glynde Place, has had two silver chandeliers stolen which are valued at ₤200,000. All of this, and Croome Court, the former home of the 11th Earl of Coventry, was looted of its fixtures and fittings (including the kitchen sink) to the tune of ₤200,000.

Now, we find this a little fishy...to say the least. Either there's massive fraud going on amongst England's aristocratic families (which we highly doubt) or there's a very experienced ring of thieves making off with the family silver (sorry, but that's our new favorite term). The BBC first hit upon this by stating that Firle Place and Glynde Place are only six minutes apart. Meanwhile, Croome Court is approximately three hours away from both locations. Maybe Croome (a deserted home) was the beginning for a nefarious gang of looters...

One thing that doesn't help is the fact that Firle Place and Glynde Place are both open to the public, which would allow unsavory characters to "case the joint" before striking. It's not as if these families hide their most prized, cherished, and valuable possessions. Why make it easy for the thieves to see exactly what they're stealing because it's labeled, authenticated and behind a thin sheet of glass?
Oh, and this is the third time Firle Place has been robbed in the past eight years!

We suggest that they lock their doors, close the security gates, invest in a top-notch security system and put the good stuff away when the tourists go home for the night... Preferably, in the family vault.

Brankrupt Aristo's Forced Out of Ancestral Home

2009-07-28T16:56:00.003+01:00

Park House, the ancestral home of Sir Charles Wolseley, 11th Baronet of Wolseley and Lady Wolseley, has been sold to the Royal Bank of Scotland after Sir Wolseley's failed business venture. The couple ran into trouble after Sir Charles was unsuccessful in turning the garden into a tourist attraction; Sir Charles declared bankruptcy in 1996 with debts of ₤2.5 million The Daily Mail is reporting that the couple will have to move into a converted barn.

In these tough times, The Aristo News is surprised, but not shocked, by the news. The Park House estate has been in the family for 1,000 years after it was given to them by King Edgar. Maybe he should have sold the family silver instead...

German Prince Dating American Socialite

2009-07-28T16:20:00.004+01:00

Casimir Wittgenstein-Sayn, a German aristocratic prince, is dating American socialite, Tinsley Mortimer. Casimir has a long, interesting relationship history (he married a Swedish divorcee nine years his senior, much to the consternation of his parents) and is quite known on the London social scene. Meanwhile, Tinsley is well known throughout the Park Avenue-set. If they marry, could this be the biggest society union since Consuelo Vandberilt married the 9th Duke of Marlborough? Probably not, but their relationship should be "entertaining" at the very least, especially because Tinsley is only seperated - not divorced - from her husband, Robert Mortimer & Casimir's ex-wife lives in Germany. Yes... Entertaining, indeed!

Swine Flu & The Aristocrat

2009-07-28T15:01:00.004+01:00

Could it be?

The Aristo News has learned that the body of Sir Mark Sykes, 6th Baron of Sledmere may have died from an early strain of swine flu. The 6th Baron died of Spanish Flu, which is the precursor to what we know as swine flu. Although the 6th Baron died in 1919, he was buried in a lead lined coffin, which helped preserve his lungs & brain tissue. Professor John Oxford hopes that understanding the 1918 flu which killed Mark Sykes may help find a cure for swine flu.

Sir Mark Sykes is the great-grandfather of author Plum Sykes.

And We're Back!

2009-07-26T23:56:00.002+01:00

The Aristo News has returned from a welcomed (and hot) beach break!

Updates will continue as normal on July 27, 2009!

As always, we'll keep you posted...

Aristo News in the Sunshine

2009-07-15T10:18:00.001+01:00

The Aristo News has sought refuge in the summer sunshine of a quiet beach retreat for a much needed break. We will keep posting, so check back every now and then...look for one or two posts a day. Keep your tips coming! Always, The Aristo News

Horse Trails at Powderham Castle to Close in 2010

2009-07-14T16:51:00.003+01:00

We're not picking on the Earl of Devon! He's just very popular today!

The Horse Trails at Powderham Castle, the Earl of Devon's home and ancestral seat, will close in 2010. Although no concrete reason has been provided, officials state that the circumstances regarding the closure are beyond their control. We would think that Lord Devon would take every pound that came his way in the light of his less than stellar sale at Sotheby's today... Riders in the past have included the Queen's granddaughter, Zara Phillips, who won (with Andrew Nicholson) the advanced section at this year's event.

We can't help but wonder if there's something rotten in Powderham Castle...

If you have any tips, e-mail us at aristotips@gmail.com.

Just in! Marquess of Downshire Scores at Sotheby's Sale!

2009-07-14T16:26:00.003+01:00

Unlike the Earl of Devon, the Marquess of Downshire did very well at today's Sotheby's sale. As we previously reported, he was selling a document called "Engineering - The Draining of the Fens". The item had a guide price of ₤20,000-₤30,000, but it sold for a remarkable ₤35,000.

Well done!

It must be said that most items at today's sale went unsold, while others barely reached their minimum guide price. The market seems to be skewed towards buyers, so our aristo's would be advised to keep the family silver at home until the market recovers in their favor. But when you need the money, you need the money...

Just in!!! Results of Earl of Devon's Sotheby's Sale!

2009-07-14T15:51:00.003+01:00

The Aristo News has just returned from the Sotheby's sale in London. It was a wonderful affair! Were you there?

As we've reported before, the Earl of Devon was set to sell his "family silver" to help cope with the loss of wedding revenue at his ancestral seat, Powderham Castle. We dug a bit deeper to find that Lord Devon had already sold two pieces at Sotheby's for ₤938,750, which makes us believe that his financial woes may very well be for castle repairs or other financial problems.

Anyway, Lord Devon had eight lots for sale, three of which did not sell. Only one lot (Theological Traits - A Collection of 155 Works) came in over its guide price. The item with the largest guide price, Vindication of the Character and Conduct of Sir William Waller by Sir William Waller, was ₤10,000-₤15,000. This lot was unsold; the highest bid was ₤8,500.

All in all, Lord Devon raised ₤19,600 through the Sotheby's Sale. Coupled with today's sale, Lord Devon has raised ₤958,350 for his castle repairs...or whatever the money's really for... Good luck, Lord Devon!

LOTS SOLD:
₤3,500 for The Elements of Architecture by Henry Wotton (Guide Price: ₤4,000-₤6,000)
₤7,500 for Mahomet the Second, or the Generous Sultan: A Tragedy by John Boevery (Guide Price ₤8,000-₤12,000)
₤800 for The Entertainment of His Most Excellent Majestie Charles II, in His Passage through the City of London to his Coronation (Guide Price: ₤1,000-₤1,500)
₤7,000 for Theological Trairs - A Collection of 155 Works in 9 Volumes (Guide Price: ₤3,000-₤4,000)
₤800 for Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe in 2 Volumes (Guide Price: ₤1,000-₤1,500)
Total of Lots Sold: ₤19,600

UNSOLD LOTS:
Highest Bid: ₤8,500 for Vindication of the Character and Conduct of Sir William Waller by Sir William Waller (Guide Price: ₤10,000-₤15,000 with a ₤10,000 Reserve)
Highest Bid: ₤7,000 for a 17th Century Bible (Guide Price: ₤8,000-₤12,000 with a ₤8,000 Reserve)
Highest Bid: ₤750 for The Mourtray Family by Elizabeth Hervey (Guide Price: ₤1,000-₤1,500 with a ₤1,000 Reserve)
Potential Revenue of Unsold Lots Based on Reserves: ₤19,000

If anything arises, we'll keep you posted.
Click here for today's Sotheby's sale.

Jacobites to Regain Aristo Titles?

2009-07-13T19:48:00.003+01:00

The Scotsman is reporting that certain Scottish noble families could regain their noble titles after losing them during the Jacobite uprisings in the 18th century. Certain noble lines lost their estates, titles and lives because they were seen as having "corrupt blood". This campaign to alleviate these families of centuries of ill will has support in the Scottish Parliament, so we'll see how this turns out. If this campaign is successful, it could restore ancient titles to descendants of earls of Panmure, Southesk and Kellie, as well as the Duke of Berwick. It's also interesting to note that on July 24 the heads of Scotland's noble families will meet in the Scottish Parliament for the very first time. Will this be a subject of conversation? Oh, if only we were a fly on that wall.

Viscount Rothermere Named 6th Most Powerful Person in Newspapers

2009-07-13T19:10:00.003+01:00

The Guardian has named Viscount Rothermere, the chairman of Daily Mail & General Trust, has been named the sixth most powerful person in newspapers and the thirty-fourth most powerful person in overall media. Viscount Rothermere, also known as Jonathan Harmsworth, fell from the twenty-ninth most powerful person in overall media in 2008.

Click here and here to read the full story.

UK's Richest Aristo Lends Priceless Pieces of Art

2009-07-13T18:54:00.004+01:00

The UK's richest aristocrat, the Duke of Westminster, has lent several priceless masterpieces to the Chester Grosvenor Museum in Chester. The four pieces: two Rembrandts and two David Teniers the Younger's, will be on display until September 30, 2009. The Teniers pieces are entitled "Saying Grace before a Meal" and "Interior of a Tavern", while the Rembrandt pieces include "A Man with a Hawk" and "Lady with a Fan".

For more information, click here.

Longines Royal International Horse Show

2009-07-13T18:39:00.003+01:00

Aristocrats do frequent the Longines Royal International Horse Show at Hickstead before, so there's a good chance you'll run into one.

The show lasts from July 22-26, 2009. Unfortunately, The Aristo News will be abroad during this period, so if you have any tips or pictures, send them to us at aristotips@gmail.com.

For more information about the Longines Royal International Horse Show, click here or call 01273 834315.

Lady Elizabeth Crawshay Fined for Car Accident

2009-07-11T12:10:00.003+01:00

Aristocrat Lady Elizabeth Crawshay was fined ₤750 for "driving below that of a reasonable driver" the BBC and WalesOnline are reporting. Apparently, Lady Crawshay's Rover car was involved in a glancing blow with a Subaru Impreza, which crashed into a Saab and killed two people. The driver of the Subaru, Samantha Mead, was found not guilty of causing death by dangerous driving. Lady Crawshay was fined an additional ₤15 victim surcharge, the ₤750 fine and ₤600 in costs; five points were added to her license.

The 2nd Earl Haig Has Passed Away

2009-07-10T20:43:00.003+01:00

Yesterday, the 2nd Earl Haig passed away. He was 91. The Earl was best known as a painter, who was admired by the late Queen Mother. Earl Haig is survived by his wife, Donna Geroloma Lopez y Royo di Taurisano, two daughters and his heir, Viscount Dawick.

The Aristo News' thoughts are with his family at this time.

To read his full obituary, click here.

The Aristocracy in the 21st Century

2009-07-10T20:09:00.003+01:00

Each month, The Aristo News will write our version of a "Letter from the Editor" based on the news surrounding the aristocracy. We hope you enjoy it! Always, The Aristo News

Last week, Burke’s Peerage announced that they would include illegitimate children of peers in their bible to the aristocracy. While this news may shake some families to the core, others may see it as Burke’s way of entering the twenty-first century. Illegitimate children are nothing new to the titled classes.

Charles, II acknowledged his illegitimate children and even bestowed aristocratic titles upon them. Their descendants include the Duke of Buccleuch, Earl of Plymouth, and the Duke of Richmond, Lennox and Gordon. It’s also interesting that while the illegitimate children will finally be recognized by Burke’s, it remains to be seen if the families of these children will be as welcoming? One can only imagine Christmas morning or the reading of the recently deceased duke’s last will and testament.

Will Burke’s new additions give credence to long whispered rumors that were never substantiated by the men and women who were the source of such scurrilous gossip? Debrett’s, the main competitor to Burke’s, has listed illegitimate children since 1990 (Los Angeles Times). Needless to say, illegitimate children still cannot inherit their parents’ title even if they are the oldest of the peer’s children. It’s unlikely that this will affect the aristocracy in any great way, but it may finally allow those children who were thrust into the shadows to have their own moment in the sun.

Burke’s also announced that they will list children in their birth order, regardless of sex. This is great news for the women of aristocratic families who have long been pushed to the bottom of their parents’ birth order in favor of their brothers. However, the eldest daughter still cannot inherit the family title. No, that’s still reserved for the oldest son or eldest male relative to outlive the current title holder.

History has shown us that upon the 1st Duke of Marlborough’s death in 1722, his eldest daughter, Henrietta, became the 2nd Duchess of Marlborough since her father had no male relative to carry on the title. It wasn’t as easy as Henrietta simply inheriting the title; a special act of Parliament had to be passed for Henrietta to become the duchess. Interestingly enough, the Dukedom of Marlborough is the only one in the United Kingdom that can still pass to the female line.

The Barony of de Walden fell into abeyance after the death of the 9th Baron de Walden in 1999. It wasn’t until 2004 that Queen Elizabeth; II took the barony out of abeyance in order for the 9th Baron’s eldest daughter, Mary, to become to the 10th Baroness Howard de Walden. Mary is also the third richest aristocrat on The Aristo News’ “Ten Richest Aristocrats in the UK” list.

Could Parliament call an end to male preference lineages in favor of a full primogeniture (or birth order preference)? There have been rumblings that the UK monarchy should adopt this system, which is already in use in Sweden, Netherlands, Norway, Belgium, and Denmark. If women were to inherit the title, one could simply state that the title of peerage could not change, no matter what the children are called. For example, if the woman is Mary Hart, 3rd Duchess of Holm and she marries John Draper, her son would be known as the John Draper, 4th Duke of Holm. Maybe we’re oversimplifying the issue, but it’s something to think about.

Thanks for the tips

2009-07-10T16:20:00.005+01:00

We would like to thank everyone who has sent us news tips over the past week! The Aristo News is only a week old, but we're growing! We've already dug inside the Earl of Devon's financial woes in such depth that hasn't been touched upon by the mainstream press. We've even broken the story of the 2nd Baron Hesketh's trustees selling a priceless painting at Sotheby's. Bet you didn't read about that in the Daily Mail.

This is all thanks to you, our readers.

Please keep those great tips coming and we'll keep doing what we do best: Being the only site online that delves deep into the world of the aristocracy.

Always,
The Aristo News

Germany's New Economics Minister is an Aristocrat

2009-07-10T15:33:00.006+01:00

Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg is Germany's new economics minister, despite his aristocratic background. The Irish Times reports that he's the second most popular politician in Germany after Angela Merkel, the current chancellor.

Karl-Theodor is a baron from Franconia, which is in northern Bavaria. His full title is: Karl-Theordor Maria Nikolaus Johann Jacob Philipp Franz Joseph Sylvester, Baron from and to Guttenberg. Try saying that three times fast.

The 37 year old baron is a married father of two and it seems that the German society (or gossip) press cannot get enough of him. His approval rating is an astounding 61%. The Irish Times even alludes to the fact that his vast family wealth (which is rumored to stand between ₤600 million-₤800 million) allows the baron to think independently, without worrying about his own financial well being.

The baron lives in his family's castle in Bavaria and a mansion in Berlin. He is also a member of the distinguished noble House of Guttenberg. The House of Guttenberg dates back to 1149. His wife is Stephanie, Countess of Bismark-Schönhausen and the great-great-granddaughter of Otto von Bismark, Prince of Bismarck and Duke of Lauenburg.

Germany abolished all royal and aristocratic titles & privileges in 1919.

We'll keep you posted on Karl-Theodor.

Belvoir Castle to Host CLA Game Fair

2009-07-10T12:26:00.003+01:00

From July 24-26, Belvoir Castle will host the CLA Game Fair. The fair is the world's biggest and greatest country sport and country show, according to the NNFCC. Guests will have the chance to experience all that country life has to offer, which will be an ideal day out for families and country enthusiasts. Maybe you'll even run into the Duke and Duchess of Rutland.

Belvoir Castle is owned by is the home and ancestral seat of the 11th Duke of Rutland and his family.

For more information about the castle, click here.

For more information on the CLA Game Fair, click here.

Dowager Duchess of Devonshire's New Book

2009-07-09T12:36:00.004+01:00

In the Dowager Duchess of Devonshire's new book, Home to Roost: And Other Peckings, she recounts her first meeting with future United States president, Jack Kennedy, along with his inauguration and sudden death. The book is taken from the diaries the duchess kept at the time of all three events. It's a wonderful read for anyone who wants a ringside seat to some of the most pivotal points of the last hundred years. And the Dowager Duchess was right there...

Click here to buy the book.

Earl Compton To Sell Tandridge and Chelsham Estates

2009-07-08T23:26:00.002+01:00

Is The Aristo News turning into a real estate blog? We hope not!

Well, Earl Compton, the heir to the 7th Marquess of Northampton, is selling the Tandridge and Chelsham Estate in Surrey. The estate, which is listed by Savills, has a sale price of ₤25 million.

The estate is only half an hour from London and fourteen miles from Gatwick Airport. Not bad. Rent from the various farming enterprises on the estate stood at ₤350,000 for last year. The income from residential, commercial and farming property stands at ₤450,000 per year. There are 9 farmhouses, 25 cottages, woodland and many more features on this vast ₤25 million estate.

This may be a nice payday for the Earl in this environment and you do get a lot for your money. However, we can't help but wonder if the aristo's are starting to feel the credit crunch. Let's not forget that the 2nd Baron Hesketh's trustees just sold a painting for ₤1,161,250, which was ₤38,750 under the ₤1.2 million guide price.
If our aristo's continue to sell their prized works of arts and homes, what will be next? Their titles? Only time will tell...

For more information on Earl Compton's ₤25 million estate, click here and here.

Viscount Thurso's Plane Struck By Lightning!

2009-07-08T20:21:00.003+01:00

The 3rd Viscount Thurso, better known as John Thurso, a Liberal Democrat MP, was on an airplane that was struck by lightning. Thankfully, the flight landed safely. The Flybe flight left from London Gatwick and was headed to Inverness Airport. Lightning struck the aircraft during the summer storms that plagued the UK yesterday evening. On board were two pilots, three cabin crew and sixty-six passengers. To read the full story, click here.

Just in! 2nd Baron Hesketh's Trustees Sell Painting!

2009-07-08T19:54:00.004+01:00

Just in!

No less than an hour ago, the trustees of the 2nd Baron Hesketh sold Gabriel Metsu's painting "A Woman Selling Game From A Stall" for ₤1,161,250 at Sotheby's in London. The guide price on this item was ₤1,200,000. With all of the talk surrounding a "recovery" in the art market, this comes as a bit of a surprise.

To see the item, click here.

Lady Victoria Hervey Steps Out

2009-07-07T18:46:00.003+01:00

Lady Victoria, the older sister of the current 8th Marquess of Bristol, steps out at P. Diddy's annual White Party. To see her...interesting...ensemble, click here.

Just in! Croome Court Looted!

2009-07-07T17:28:00.007+01:00

Just in!

The former ancestral seat of the Earl's of Coventry has been looted by thieves. Until the death of the 11th Earl in 2002, Croome Court was the family home. However, after the 11th Earl's death, his wife, the Countess of Coventry (now known as Rachel Coventry) sold the estate in 2007 a for rumored ₤3.5 million.

It seems that the new owners were unable to keep up the mortgage payments on the home. The new owners did try to sell the house for a ₤1.95 million, but eventually slashed the price to ₤1.65 million. Despite the desperate attempts to sell the pile, it was repossessed by the bank in January of this year.

The thieves, who are thought to have raided Croome Court between June 16 and July 3 stole over ₤200,000 worth of fittings, including the kitchen sink.

Some of the stolen items include: 11 oak doors, a chandelier, a stainless steel sink and the rear wrought-iron gates.

Croome Court consists of:
A 10,000 square foot main house
A cottage
Bird house
Pond
Tennis court
...and many more features...

We'll keep you posted on this story.

What's it like to be homeless? Don't ask the Marquis of Blandford.

2009-07-07T15:40:00.004+01:00

People are still talking about the fact that the Marquess of Blandford (and heir to the current Duke of Marlborough) quit the BBC show FAMOUS, RICH AND HOMELESS. We think he should've have toughed it out, but we don't know if we could last three days and nights on the streets. Then again, that was the point of the program.

Don't worry, we'll keep you posted on the comings and goings of the Marquess of Blandford.

If you live in the UK and want to watch the program, click here.

Book Deal for the Duchess of Northumberland

2009-07-07T00:42:00.003+01:00

Jane Northumberland, the wife of the current Duke of Northumberland,has signed a three book deal with the publishing house, Harper Collins. The trilogy is called The Poison Diaries. It should be noted the while the concept for the books originated with the duchess, who was inspired by the Poison Garden at Alnwick Castle, the Northumberland ancestral seat, the books will be written by Maryrose Wood. It is said that the series will be aimed at young adults. The first tale is to be published in 2010.

In 2007, the Duchess of Northumberland and Colin Stimpson collaborated on a book called THE POISON DIARIES.

To learn more about the upcoming series, click here and here.

To learn more about Maryrose Wood, click here.

Aristo Facts

2009-07-06T22:07:00.002+01:00

Did you know that the game of badminton is named after the 11th Duke of Beaufort, David Somerset's (right), country home, Badminton?

Aristo Facts

2009-07-06T18:27:00.002+01:00

Twenty-five years ago today, the 8th Duke of Westminster, opened Guilden Sutton Village Hall. To read the full story, click here.

Aristocrats Sell Items at Sotheby's

2009-07-06T17:27:00.004+01:00

It seems the Earl of Devon isn't the only aristo with apparent financial woes...

As we've stated before, the Earl of Devon is parting with family treasures at Sotheby's July 14, 2009 sale. The Marquess of Downshire is also selling an engineering document entitled THE DRAINING OF THE FENS at this auction.
THE DRAINING OF THE FENS has a minimum guide price of ₤20,000. To see the item, click here.

Tomorrow (July 7, 2009), the trustees of the 2nd Baron Hesketh are selling Gabriel Metsu's painting entitled "A Woman Selling Game From A Stall". The minimum guide price is ₤1,200,000. Click here to see the item.

With these current sales, it makes us wonder if our aristo's are being beaten by the current financial crisis. We've heard that the art market it picking up, so maybe the aristo's are selling these items at the perfect time. We'll see.

The Aristo News won't be able to attend tomorrow's auction, but we'll keep you posted on the final sale price.

As for the July 14th auction, we'll keep you posted.

Aristo Facts

2009-07-06T00:43:00.003+01:00

According to the Financial Times, Longleat, the ancestral of the Marquess of Bath, opened to the public for the first time on April 1, 1949. This was the first time an English country home was opened to the public. During the first year of operation, Longleat attracted 135,000 visitors.

To read the full article, click here.

July's Eligible Aristo Bachelor

2009-07-06T00:23:00.006+01:00

Once a month, we'll list the most eligible aristo bachelor or bachelorette.

Our eligible aristo of July is:

Ceawiln Thynn, Viscount Weymouth.

Quick facts:
He divides his time between London and Moscow.
He works in the finance sector.
He tells the Daily Mirror (July 2, 2009) that he is seeing someone in Moscow, however, he isn't tied down...yet.
Viscount Weymouth is the heir of the current Marquess of Bath.

The Aristo News at Sotheby's Sale

2009-07-05T12:52:00.004+01:00

The Aristo News will attend the Sotheby's Auction of the Earl of Devon's "family silver" on July 14, 2009. It should be very interesting!

We'll keep you posted on the auction.

Click here and here to follow our coverage of the Earl of Devon's financial woes.

Just in! Inside the Earl of Devon's Financial Woes

2009-07-04T23:24:00.006+01:00

As previously stated, the Earl of Devon is set to sell some of the "family silver" in order to pay for repairs at Powderham Castle. The Earl has been in the news because of his refusal to allow civil unions at his ancestral seat, which prompted the local council to pull the castle's marriage license.

The Aristo News has just learned that Lord Devon sold THE COURTENAY COMPENDIUM through Sotheby's for the price of ₤937,250 on December 3, 2008. A description of the item which is a collection of English and Far-Eastern accounts that includes Marco Polo's Description of the World has been in the Earl's family since 1536.

More recently, on June 10, 2009, Lord Devon sold a copy of Dante Alighieri's LE TERZE RIME for a meager ₤1,500 through Sotheby's.

In less than a year, Lord Devon has raised ₤938,750 through the sale of priceless manuscripts. With the pending Sotheby's sale, maybe this money is solely for repairs. Or, have there been financial woes for the Earl for some time and now they're just coming to light?

One of the lots up for sale at the July 14, 2009 Sotheby's sale is VINDICATION OF CHARACTER AND CONDUCT by Sir William Waller. This document recounts the English Civil War and came into the family through the marriage of Sir William's daughter, Margaret, to Sir William Courtenay. This document is valued between ₤10,000-₤15,000. Click here to see the item.

As always, we'll keep you posted as this story develops.

To see the items previously sold through Sotheby's click here and here.

Friends in High Places

2009-07-04T22:48:00.002+01:00

The Daily Mail is reporting that Lady Caroline Gilmour (daughter of the Duke of Buccleuch) once asked the boss of Heathrow to divert flights away from her home during one of her garden parties. One mustn't disturb one's guests! However, that was forty years ago. Is it a coincidence that Lady Caroline's son, Christopher Gilmour, had quiet skies for one of his garden parties this week? Mr. Gilmour insists it's a coincidence, so we'll take his word for it!

Source: The Daily Mail, July 4, 2009 click here

Scottish Aristocrats Meet in Scottish Parliament

2009-07-04T22:36:00.002+01:00

The Scotsman has just reported that Scotland's clan chiefs are to meet at the Scottish Parliament for the first time. More than 100 clan chieftans will travel from all over the world for this event. The gathering is to take place on July 24, 2009 in Edinburgh.

Lord Jamie Sempill (right) says this meeting is "a defining moment". After Scotland's bloody history, one could say that Lord Sempill is right!

Those who may be in attendance are: Earl of Elgin, the Duke of Argyll and the Duke of Buccleuch, among others.

Aristo Facts

2009-07-04T22:17:00.003+01:00

The Duke of Buccleuth & Queensbury (right) owns more than 250,000 acres.

The Dukes of Northumberland and Westminster own more than 100,000 acres each throughout the UK.

Source: The Sunday Times, July 4, 2009

Lord Frederick Windsor to Quit UK

2009-07-04T22:06:00.004+01:00

After his September 12, 2009 wedding to the actress Sophie Winkleman, Lord Frederick Windsor is to quit the UK for Los Angeles. The Telegraph reports that Lord Frederick has requested for his employer to transfer him, as his soon to be wife will commence filming in the movie capital.

Lord Frederick Windsor currently works for J.P. Morgan, while his cousin, Peter Phillips works for the Royal Bank of Scotland in Hong Kong.

We'll keep you posted on the wedding and move abroad.

Earl of Arundel and Surrey Second in Race

2009-07-04T21:56:00.002+01:00

The Earl of Arundel and Surrey, Henry Arundel, is currently in second place at Snetterton. Renger van der Zande zoomed past the aristocrat by a very small margin, reports Motorsport.com.

Henry is the son of the current Duke of Norfolk.

Just in! Earl of Snowdon Speaks Out Against Prince of Wales

2009-07-04T21:19:00.004+01:00

The Earl of Snowdon, Princess Margaret's ex-husband, has spoken out against the Prince Charles' investiture as the Prince of Wales. Lord Snowdon claims that the ceremony was "bogus as hell" and that his uniform for the event harkened to a cinema usher. Ouch.

As this is the fortieth anniversary of Prince Charles' investiture, we'll see how these revelations play out over the next few weeks.

We'll keep you posted.

The Duke and Duchess of Northumderland Want a CEO

2009-07-03T23:58:00.004+01:00

The Duke and Duchess of Northumberland are seeking an experienced CEO with Disney experience to run their family home, Alnwick Castle. The need for a CEO who understands the strategic and profitable potential of a country home is becoming increasingly important in this very important industry.

Alnwick is also up against Woburn Abbey & Blenheim Palace, among others. If the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland are successful, will it ensure the future of Alnwick? Some may say it's true that Disney has a unique slant on customer service, but can this translate into the stately home sector?

We'll keep you posted on this story.

Lord Frederick Windsor at Wimbledon

2009-07-03T23:48:00.004+01:00

Lord Frederick Windsor, the son of Prince Michael of Kent, attended Wimbledon along with his mother, Princess Michael of Kent and the late Princess Margaret's son, Viscount Linley. All three sat in the Royal Box.

Lord Frederick Windsor is currently 31st in line to the British throne.

Lord March Opens Goodwood Festival of Speed

2009-07-03T18:34:00.002+01:00

Lord March, the current Earl of March and Kinrara, officially opened the Festival of Speed at Goodwood, his ancestral seat. During the course of the festival, Lord March will drive a 917 Porsche. An estimated 100,000 people are expected to attend the weekend event.

For more information, go to: http://www.goodwood.co.uk/

Twitter

2009-07-03T18:21:00.001+01:00

Follow The Aristo News on Twitter: https://twitter.com/aristonews

Just in! The Earl and Countess of Cardigan Have Divorced!

2009-07-03T17:22:00.002+01:00

The Daily Mail is reporting that after an eighteen month divorce battle, the Earl and Countess of Cardigan have finally parted ways.

Lord Cardigan told the Mail that the agreement was not amicable, while Lady Cardigan isn't said to be estatic with the news, but she is moving on. As per the arrangement, Lady Cardigan will move into Leigh Hill House, which is situated on the edge of the Savernake Forest Estate. Lord Cardigan will remain in Savernake Lodge, which is three miles from Leigh Hill House.

It's said that the Earl may move his American girlfriend, Joanne Hill, onto the estate, which could create a bit of drama. However, due to a shared custody agreement with her ex-husband, that may prove sticky.

The Earl and Countess of Cardigan have two children.

The Ten Richest Aristocrats in the UK

2009-07-03T16:22:00.000+01:00

We have identified the ten richest aristocrats in the United Kingdom.

There is only one criteria for this list: They must have peerage in the UK.

Here is the list:

The Duke of Westminster (₤6.5 billion)
Earl Cadogan (₤ 2 billion)
Baroness Howard de Walden (₤1.07 billion)
Viscount Portman (₤950 million)
The Earl of Iveagh (₤750 million)
Viscount Cowdray (₤500 million)
The Duke of Devonshire (₤500 million)
The Duke of Bedford (₤489 million)
The Duke of Sutherland (₤480 million)
The 4th Baron Rothschild (₤360 million)

Source: The Sunday Times Rich List, 2009

Changes to Burke's Peerage

2009-07-03T14:51:00.000+01:00

Burke's Peerage is set to include illegitimate children to its revered bible of blue blood breeding. Burke's already lists the children of the aristocracy, but the company says that the inclusion of illegitimate children in order to be more "inclusive".

While this sounds like a noble feat, we'll see how it plays out in the long term.

Also, the book will finally list children in their order of birth. This means that girls will have equal footing with their male counterparts.

Financial Woes for Earl of Devon?

2009-07-03T14:40:00.001+01:00

According to The Daily Telegraph , the Earl of Devon is "selling the family silver"? Why? Due to his refusal to host gay weddings at the family seat, Powderham Castle, the castle's marriage license was revoked. The current Earl of Devon, Lord Devon, insists gay weddings are against his Christian beliefs.

A sale of priceless books and manuscripts is scheduled for July 14, 2009. However, Lord Devon insists the sale has nothing to do with the loss of his castle's marriage license, but to raise money for repair works on the castle.

We'll keep you posted on this story.

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