British Couple’s ₹16 Crore Dream Home Becomes a Renovation Nightmare
A British couple’s purchase of a historic mansion has turned into a distressing ordeal after they discovered that the previous owner had stripped the property of its most valuable features. Martin and Sarah Caton invested £1.5 million (approximately ₹16.68 crore) in Bochym Manor, a Grade II*-listed gothic revival house located near Helston, hoping to enjoy its rich history, stunning architecture, and luxurious amenities.
A British couple’s purchase of a historic mansion has turned into a distressing ordeal after they discovered that the previous owner had stripped the property of its most valuable features. Martin and Sarah Caton invested £1.5 million (approximately ₹16.68 crore) in Bochym Manor, a Grade II*-listed gothic revival house located near Helston, hoping to enjoy its rich history, stunning architecture, and luxurious amenities.
The couple envisioned life in the ten-bedroom home, with its Jacobean oak staircase, walnut-paneled library, and historic stained-glass windows dating back to the Domesday Book. However, their excitement quickly faded when they learned that the former owner, Dr. Mark Payne, had removed significant fixtures and fittings, including doors, windows, fireplaces, floors, and even plumbing and electrics. Notably, three out of four bathtubs were missing, and the exquisite stained-glass windows and library paneling—crafted by the same firm that rebuilt the Houses of Parliament—were gone.
The destruction extended beyond the main house. Holiday homes on the estate were completely gutted, and workmen hired by Dr. Payne even dismantled a staircase from the clock tower and demolished an entrance pillar to accommodate construction vehicles.
“I was distraught. It was like a warzone or like a tornado had shredded the place,” Mr. Caton expressed. “He took pretty much every door handle, tiles off the wall, and the locks were removed. There was some very random and bizarre destruction. I don’t understand the mentality behind it—it’s staggering that you can be that cruel.”
Both Mr. Caton, a veterinarian and entrepreneur, and his wife had suspicions that something was amiss before they received the keys to the mansion. Dr. Payne had made excuses to prevent them from visiting the property prior to the sale, raising red flags about the condition of the house.
Now, the Catons are faced with the daunting task of restoring Bochym Manor to its former glory, a project that was not part of their initial plans. As they begin the reconstruction process, they hope to preserve the rich history of the estate while navigating the challenges left by its previous owner.
Sources By Agencies
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