In better times, Richard Branson was able to cavort on Necker in the Virgin Islands.

Just because you’re rich, that doesn’t mean you’re going to be safe from tragedy.  See, for example, Richard Branson.  He owns a beautiful home on the island Necker in the British Virgin Islands, and it is one of the finest island homes in the known universe, making great use of the natural environment, the beach, and the natural features of his land.  Well, it did; now it’s gone.  The family of Richard Branson and an Oscar-nominated celebrity guest were forced to flee after fire destroyed Branson’s Virgin Islands estate.

“Kate Winslet, her boyfriend, and her family were there and Holly and some of her friends were also staying,” Branson said, speaking of the Titanic actress and his 29-year-old daughter. “My mother was there and they managed to get her out and she is fine.”  Unfortunately for Branson, the home was completely destroyed.  “My office was based in the house and I have lost thousands of photographs which is very sad.  We’ll all stay here for the time being,” he added. “There’s a lot of damage and we won’t be able to stick it back together again right away.”

No word on whether or not Branson used Virgin Galactic SpaceShip Two to evacuate to Spaceport America.

Branson bought the island Necker in the British Virgin Islands in the early 80’s and Great House was completed by 1982.  Winslet and her party of 20 were staying at Great House; Branson and his family were staying at another property about 100 yards away when the hurricane struck around 4 AM.  No cause has been determined yet, but it is believed that lightning strikes from the hurricane started the fire.  No one was injured.

Tags: Richard Branson, Kate Winslet, Tropical Storm Irene, Hurricane Irene, British Virgin Islands, Great House, Necker, fire destroys Richard Branson’s private island, Kate Winslet flees Richard Branson house after fire, fires, natural disasters, unusual accidents

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