An unconventional nobleman, who made headlines on ITV in search of a wife with specific qualifications for producing a male heir, has been defeated in court by his former spouse in a legal dispute over a £1.2 million inheritance. Sir Benjamin Slade, known for his unique marriage criteria, separated from Lady Pauline Slade after a 12-year marriage in 1994. As part of their divorce settlement, Lady Pauline received a trust fund totaling £1.2 million, comprising a property valued at £585,000 and a cash fund of approximately £651,000.
The conflict arose when Lady Pauline moved out of the residence in Somerset, where Sir Slade had been residing after putting his manor up for sale. The disagreement escalated as she sought to sell the property and utilize the proceeds to settle debts and enhance her financial standing. However, Sir Slade contended that the property, named Old Farm in Lower Rydon, was not intended as an income-generating asset and that her income was to be sustained from the cash fund provided.
The dispute reached the High Court, with the ex-wife’s trustees seeking permission to sell the property. Lady Pauline indicated her desire to sell the property in a letter, relinquishing any claim to it and consenting to the funds being reinvested to improve her financial situation. Master Julia Clark ruled in favor of Lady Pauline, emphasizing that the trust fund was designed to support her financially throughout her lifetime, including the property within it.
Sir Slade’s lineage traces back to General Sir John Slade, a baronet associated with the Duke of Wellington. Despite his peculiar requirements for a wife, which include age restrictions and specific hobbies, Sir Slade’s search for a partner has drawn attention. His former wife, Lady Pauline, is the daughter of Major Claude Myburgh, a Devonshire cricketer and British Army officer.
The eccentric aristocrat’s family estate, Maunsel House in Somerset, has been listed for sale at £3.5 million. Sir Slade has been known for his publicized pursuit of a spouse, offering a substantial annual sum and outlining his unconventional preferences, including disqualifying traits like being a Scorpio or Scottish.
Sir Slade’s intriguing quest for a wife was further showcased on ITV’s This Morning in 2018. His first wife, Pauline Myburgh, had notable familial connections in Devon.