During a two-week trial at the High Court, Mr Justice Trower heard that Mr Gladstone and his late wife April’s friendship with Ms White blossomed through shared interests in Sri Lanka, classical music and theatre. The property, which dates back to 1714, has been in Mrs Gladstone’s family for over half a century and boasts famous neighbors in Sir Tony and Cherie Blair, as well as extensive grounds with pleasure gardens and two lakes. When Mrs Gladstone died in 2014, Mr Gladstone, who opened the first British embassy in Ukraine, inherited her. The former coach house on the estate was bought by Sir Tony and Mrs Blair in 2008.
Claim Gladstone forgot his promise due to old age
Ms White claims that from 2007 onwards, Mr Gladstone repeatedly assured her that Wotton House and two other properties that make up his £20m fortune would go to her when he died. She claims Mr Gladstone – who she said treated her as a “surrogate daughter” – promised she would be his, a claim she disputes, saying he is “desperate” to spend his final years there. Mr Gladstone is now suing Ms White, who currently lives at the property with her son and husband, for possession of the house. He is appealing to the High Court, arguing that Mr Gladstone must have forgotten his earlier promises due to his advanced age.
