September 21st 2024.
Martin and Sarah Caton had just purchased their dream home, a stunning Grade II*-listed mansion in Cornwall called Bochym Manor. They were overjoyed with their purchase, as the beautiful estate came with a rich history dating back to the Domesday Book and boasted ten bedrooms, secret passageways, and even 13 holiday homes on the property.
However, their excitement quickly turned to disbelief when they finally entered the mansion for the first time after completing the purchase. The previous owner, Dr. Mark Payne, had stripped the property of its most valuable assets, leaving the Catons devastated. Doors, windows, fireplaces, floors, and even the plumbing and electrics had been torn out, leaving the once-gorgeous home in shambles. It was like a warzone or a tornado had ripped through the place.
Even more shocking was the fact that not only had Bochym Manor been stripped bare, but the holiday homes on the estate had also been completely gutted. Dr. Payne had even gone so far as to tear out the staircase from the clock tower and knock down the entrance pillar at the end of the drive to make room for his work trucks.
Mr. Caton, a veterinarian and entrepreneur, and his wife had their suspicions about the property before they were given the final key by Dr. Payne. He had made excuses to prevent them from seeing the property before the sale, but the Catons were determined to pursue their dream of turning the estate into holiday cottages and a wedding venue.
Their worst fears were confirmed when they finally saw the extent of the damage. It was estimated that the Catons would have to spend an additional £1.5 million to repair the damage done to the property they had purchased in 2014. They reported the damage to the authorities and began a nine-year legal battle.
Under the law, sellers are not allowed to remove any fixtures or fittings from the property without the buyer's consent. Additionally, local authorities must give permission for any fixtures to be removed from a listed building. Despite this, Dr. Payne was able to escape charges after being arrested on suspicion of theft and criminal damage.
Using historic photographs, the Catons were able to prove what the property looked like before Dr. Payne's destructive actions. They presented their case to the council, who hired an external lawyer and were advised that there was ample evidence to prosecute Dr. Payne. However, the council refused to pursue the matter, leaving the Catons confused and frustrated.
After nine long years, the Catons finally received justice when the removed items were returned to them in March of this year. Dr. Payne had failed to provide evidence or appear in court for a hearing, and the Catons were able to reclaim their stolen belongings. It was a bittersweet victory for the couple, who had spent so much time and money fighting for what was rightfully theirs.
In the end, justice was served, but the Catons will always be reminded of the damage done to their dream home. They hope that their story will serve as a warning to others, and that they can finally move forward and turn Bochym Manor into the beautiful estate it once was. This article was first published on April 26, 2024, and serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination of the Catons in the face of such adversity.
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