How Ronnie Corbett’s devoted widow left £2million fortune to their daughters and grandchildren – after giving up West End career for her family

How Ronnie Corbett's devoted widow left £2million fortune to their daughters and grandchildren - after giving up West End career for her family

As a seasoned observer of the British aristocracy, I must say that the lives of these noble individuals are a fascinating blend of grandeur and everyday struggles. The stories of Lady Alice Manners and Baroness Chalker, though vastly different, reflect this duality.

Originating from Lambeth, located in the southern part of London, she rose to prominence on the West End stage, often compared to America’s seductive screen icon, Jane Russell, who was a symbol of glamour in Britain.

However, upon marrying a small comedian in 1966, Anne Hart made a decision to prioritize her life with him and their children over her career. She expressed this sentiment many years later by saying: “For me, Ronnie and our kids have always been more important than the pursuit of fame. That remains true even today.

Anne, who was married to the remarkable Ronnie Corbett, never had any second thoughts about her choice, nor did she ever change her belief that “family comes first”.

A year after her death at the age of 90, her will was made public. In it, she arranged for her £2 million estate to be distributed among her two daughters, Sophie and Emma, her four grandchildren, and her sister. Additionally, she canceled a £790,000 loan that had assisted Sophie in purchasing a house in Hove, Sussex, thus ensuring a home for future generations.

How Ronnie Corbett's devoted widow left £2million fortune to their daughters and grandchildren - after giving up West End career for her family

Launch party

Historian Lady Antonia Fraser – still glowing and glamorous, though wheelchair-bound – joined former Chancellor Lord (Norman) Lamont and interior designer Nicky Haslam and a slew of Churchills at Christie’s London headquarters for the launch party for Clarissa: Muse To Power, Hugo Vickers’s biography of Clarissa Eden.

Vickers clarified that contrary to her official status, Clarissa wasn’t truly Sir Winston Churchill’s younger brother Jack’s daughter.

Nor, added Vickers, had Jack Churchill been the son of Winston’s father, Lord Randolph Churchill.

Will, I wonder, any aristocratic family tree remain intact after revision by DNA testing?

Call for change

West End performer Beverley Knight asserts that executives within the music industry dismissed her opinion that television talent shows are a monstrous creation.

Now, she suggests that the unfortunate demise of Liam Payne, a renowned singer who gained popularity on The X-Factor, might prompt a significant shift in how emerging stars are handled.

She shares with me that, during the initial stages, she faced criticism when expressing her desire for increased attention towards young individuals who quickly enter the public spotlight, as they have less experience and need more care.

It’s quite challenging for me to adapt. Given my background in theater, I can’t help but wish there was more of a system like chaperones in place within the music industry.

Hailing from Wolverhampton, similar to Payne, a knight was recently awarded the Outstanding Commitment to Diversity at the European Diversity Awards. She further stated, “People from Wolverhampton share a deep sense of empathy and compassion towards that particular family.

Outspoken model

Previously crowned as the world’s most attractive female model, Caprice Bourret, openly backed Donald Trump during the U.S. presidential elections.

And she’s sick of the criticism she receives from other women.

The Californian-born entrepreneur, aged 53, expresses to me during the London debut of Peacock’s holiday line that it genuinely bothers her,” as they showcase her modeling their lingerie and sleepwear assortment.

As a devoted advocate for women everywhere, I firmly stand against anyone trying to dictate your thoughts, ladies! Each of you, keep shining, keep thinking, and never let another woman dim your light.

She states: “Please, do not attempt to silence or undermine me just because we have different feelings.

‘I don’t do that, especially women hating on other women.’

Elton’s show

As an ardent admirer, let me share an intriguing twist: Sir Elton John, the maestro himself, has donned the garb of Lady Liberty and graced the stage in a Donald Duck suit! Yet, the grandest spectacle lies ahead – a performance that defies all norms is about to unfold.

It’s been made known that some extraordinary plans have been set in motion for his visit next month, which coincides with the opening night of “The Devil Wears Prada” on the West End stage. This production boasts music composed by none other than Sir Elton.

Producer Jamie Wilson clarifies: “I’m making efforts to persuade Camden council to shut down Oxford Street, so that Elton can make his grand entrance in a massive Prada shoe, towed by eight real reindeer. This is our primary strategy.

What could possibly go wrong?

Fit for a queen

The Marquess of Salisbury’s seat, Hatfield House in Hertfordshire, brought splendour to Bridgerton.

However, to create new settings for the spin-off titled Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story, it was necessary to move the storyline to Charlotte’s native Germany where the plot unfolds.

Producers opted to use Ditton Manor in Berkshire. Now, the ‘events venue’, ten minutes’ drive from Heathrow, is on the market for £6 million.

Perfect for a plane-spotting Bridgerton fan…

Baroness steps down

It became evident that Baroness Chalker’s appointment to Sentebale’s board symbolized Prince Harry’s aspirations for the charitable organization, dedicated to assisting at-risk children in Lesotho.

Currently, I’m able to share that the individual, who served as Lynda Chalker in the role of overseas development minister for a span of eight years under both Margaret Thatcher and John Major, recently stepped down after being affiliated for 18 years.

This year marks another setback for the Duke of Sussex’s organization, as it recently parted ways with high-profile advertising executive Johnny Hornby.

He stood down after 11 years as a trustee, five of which he spent as chairman.

Over the past weekend, it was revealed by The Mail on Sunday that Andrew Tucker, fondly known as ‘Tucks’ by Harry, relinquished his high-ranking role at Sentebale after nearly a decade in service.

As a die-hard devotee, let me tell you that though I may step down from my official position, my dedication towards the noble cause of our cherished charity and the remarkable Duke of Sussex is unshakable! The flame of loyalty burns brightly within me.

‘Hero’ brother rescues Lady Alice after she comes a cropper

Lady Alice Manners, known for her dedication to social gatherings, is currently taking a mandatory break from partying.

It’s said that the 29-year-old daughter of the Duke of Rutland, who is passionate about horse riding, was unfortunately injured in an accident. The incident resulted in a broken collarbone for her and some severe bruising on her leg.

The model and fashion stylist, originating from Belvoir Castle in Leicestershire, casually mentions, ‘For a short while, my collarbone seems to have shifted its position, but I’ll wait until I face physiotherapy before trying to correct it.’

Lady Alice chooses not to disclose specifics about the event, yet expresses thanks to her brother Hugo (aged 21) for his timely assistance. In her words, “Hugo is my hero.

‘He stayed with me [in hospital] and got me home.’

2024-11-16 04:38