Sad decline of Brooks Mileson's mansion as judge approves repossession

Published on Friday 23 April 2010 23:27

A JUDGE has approved the repossession of the late Brooks Mileson's rundown mansion.

It will now be sold to the highest bidder with the proceeds used to help pay off part of his staggering debts.

The controversial owner of Gretna Football Club was declared bankrupt more than a year after his death, with secret debts of 6 million.

During his life the former insurance and property tycoon reputedly had an estimated personal fortune of 36m and was rated the 49th richest man in football.

He became a folk hero in Gretna as he funded the club's rise to the Scottish Premier League, but the club was forced to dissolve in 2008 after falling into severe financial difficulties when Mr Mileson withdrew his financial backing.

The possession order, approved by a judge at Carlisle County Court, is the latest twist in the financially complicated life of Mr Mileson. He was formally declared bankrupt in February after South Africa-based businessman Robert Ward – who is owed 1.85m – made an application to the court.

There was no one at Mr Mileson's once magnificent home yesterday, on the outskirts of Carlisle, and it now appears abandoned, with discarded personal belongings, including children's toys, scattered around its vast grounds.

The once stunning Japanese garden is now derelict. The large aviary, which once housed many exotic birds, and the huge pond beside it – where he was found collapsed shortly before his death – are also empty and falling into rapid decline.