Clandon Fire – Earl of Onslow Says: ‘Out of This Tragedy Will Rise Another Chapter’

Published on: 5 May, 2015
Updated on: 5 May, 2015

Rubble inside Marble Hall – Photo supplied by NT © John Millar

The Earl of Onslow, whose family owned Clandon Park House until it was given to the National Trust in the 1950s, has said how “deeply saddened” his family are by last week’s “devastating fire”.

In a defiant conclusion he said: “My family has been at Clandon since 1641; we are not going anywhere and out of this tragedy will rise another chapter in the history of Clandon Park.”

Marble Hall, cast of classical statue – Photo NT © John Millar

His statement in full reads: “My family and I are deeply saddened by the devastating damage the fire has inflicted upon Clandon. Although now owned by the National Trust [NT] the house is intensely loved by my family as well as the many people that visit her every year.

“The fire was a travesty of history and a tragedy of property, but unlike the human horrors of Nepal, it is important to note that there has been no loss of life. I would personally like to offer my heartfelt thanks to all the firemen for their energy, bravery and expertise.

“From a positive perspective it is good to know that with the guidance of the Trust, the fire crews managed to ensure that a large quantity of family history was salvaged for us all to view in the future.

Only the shell of Clandon Park House survives but Lord Onslow is determined a new chapter in its history will be created – Photo NT © John Millar

“Over the last four years I have been working with the NT to enhance both the numbers of visitors and their experience of Clandon House. A new and expanded car park and a visitor centre are planned for a part of the estate that is privately owned by family, so I look forward to working closely with the Trust not only to complete these plans but also in the restoration of the House itself.

“My family has been at Clandon since 1641; we are not going anywhere and out of this tragedy will rise another chapter in the history of Clandon Park.”