Freed Killer Farmer Tony Martin Bequeaths £2.5m to Pub Landlady
Killer farmer Tony Martin, who was freed from prison after his murder conviction was overturned, has bequeathed a fortune of £2.5 million to Jacqueline Wadsley, the landlady of the Hare & Hounds pub. The estate, valued at £2,567,795, includes the property known as Bleak House and approximately 350 acres of surrounding land.
Relationship Background
Tony Martin, who passed away at the age of 80, developed a close bond with Wadsley after they met in 2003. This friendship blossomed into a relationship akin to that of a father and daughter. Wadsley managed the Hare & Hounds for over ten years, where Martin would often visit.
Details of the Estate
- Estate value: £2,567,795
- Property included: Bleak House and 350 acres of land
- Beneficiaries: Jacqueline Wadsley and her husband David
In his will, signed in 2013, Martin named Wadsley and her husband, David, as trustees of his estate. Despite expectations that some assets might go to family members, Martin chose to leave his fortune entirely to Wadsley.
Connection with the Community
Martin is known for his controversial history involving the shooting of teenage burglar Fred Barras in 1999. This incident ignited a nationwide debate over homeowners’ rights to defend their property. After his release from prison, Martin maintained a low profile but often visited Wadsley’s pub, where their friendship deepened.
Jacqueline Wadsley, now 52, was instrumental in caring for Martin during his later years. She assisted him with medical appointments and became an essential part of his life. Martin’s former associates described their relationship as familial, highlighting Wadsley’s caring nature.
Post-Demise Developments
Following Martin’s death from complications related to a stroke, his estate faced vandalism and break-ins. David Wadsley reported that security measures were increased, including the installation of 24-hour CCTV, to better protect the property.
Despite these challenges, the Wadsleys intend to continue farming the land, as they had already been tending to it prior to Martin’s passing. David expressed a desire to honor Martin’s memory by keeping the farm operational.
Reflections from Friends and Associates
Malcolm Starr, a friend of Martin’s, noted that their relationship grew out of mutual respect and understanding. Wadsley helped provide accommodation for Martin later in his life, reflecting her deep commitment to their bond.
Brendan Fearon, an accomplice injured during the original shooting incident, spoke fondly of Martin after his passing. He noted a lack of anger towards Martin and acknowledged the complexities surrounding their shared past. Fearon emphasized the cyclical nature of crime and its consequences, highlighting the tragic outcomes for both families involved.
As the community reflects on Tony Martin’s legacy, his choice to bequeath his fortune to Jacqueline Wadsley demonstrates the profound impact of their relationship, testament to the importance of companionship in the face of adversity.
