July 27th 2024.
Martin and Sarah Caton were ecstatic when they finally sealed the deal for their new mansion in Cornwall. The Grade II*-listed estate, known as Bochym Manor, was a dream come true for the couple. It boasted a stunning Jacobean oak staircase, a walnut-panelled library, and a rich history dating all the way back to the Domesday Book. To top it off, the estate also included 13 beautiful holiday homes.
However, their excitement quickly turned to shock and devastation when they stepped foot inside their new home for the first time. They were horrified to find that the previous owner, Dr. Mark Payne, had stripped the property of its most valuable assets. Doors, windows, fireplaces, floors, and even the plumbing and electrics were all gone.
Not only was the main house stripped bare, but the holiday homes were also gutted. The estate's clock tower, which once held a grand staircase, was now empty after being torn out by workmen hired by Dr. Payne. To make matters worse, the entrance pillar at the end of the drive had been knocked down to allow for easy access for the builders.
Martin described the scene as a "warzone" or as if a "tornado had shredded the place." Dr. Payne had taken everything he could, from door handles to wall tiles, leaving the Catons with a massive repair bill. They estimated that they would have to spend another £1.5 million to fix the damage caused by the previous owner.
What made the situation even more upsetting was that the Catons were not allowed to see the property before they bought it. Dr. Payne had continuously made excuses to prevent them from visiting, but the couple pressed on with the sale in pursuit of their dream of turning the estate into holiday cottages and a wedding venue.
However, their worst fears came true when they finally saw the property for the first time. Martin admitted that he wanted to walk away and never come back. The damage was extensive, and it would take a significant amount of time and money to restore the estate to its former glory.
The Catons immediately reported the damage to the police and Cornwall Council, sparking a nine-year legal battle. It was discovered that Dr. Payne had removed fixtures and fittings without the buyer's consent, which is prohibited by law. Local authorities also have to grant permission for any alterations to a listed building.
Dr. Payne was arrested on suspicion of theft, criminal damage, and offences within the Planning Act. The police managed to recover some of the items in April 2015, but the case was eventually dropped by the council due to a lack of evidence. The Catons, determined to seek justice, presented their case again, providing historic photographs to prove the extent of the damage.
After nine long years, the Catons finally received justice when the removed items were returned to them. Dr. Payne failed to provide evidence or appear in court for a hearing under the Police Property Act, leading to the items being returned to their rightful owners. The couple, however, still cannot understand why the council refused to pursue Dr. Payne, despite having ample evidence to prosecute.
The Catons hope that their story will serve as a cautionary tale to others looking to purchase historic properties. They advise buyers to thoroughly inspect the property and to take legal action if any damage is discovered after the sale. As for their dream of turning Bochym Manor into a holiday destination, the Catons are still determined to make it happen, despite the hurdles they have faced.
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