Castle's new owner is computer expert

WHEN the sale of a 12th-century castle was announced last year, it prompted much speculation as to the identity of the prospective buyer.

The Hollywood stars Sir Sean Connery and John Travolta were both rumoured to be among those interested in Lee Castle in Lanarkshire, while the millionaire pop star Robbie Williams was also linked with the title of the 35th Baron of Lee.

The rumours proved false, however, and today Scotland’s newest noble can be revealed as a reclusive American internet pioneer who, over the years, has made millions of pounds from computing.

Addison McElroy Fischer, 54, is an internationally recognised player in the area of IT security.

Legal papers lodged with the Land Registry in Edinburgh show Mr Fischer is the new owner of Lee Castle in Nemphlar, near Lanark.

However, an air of mystery surrounding Lee Castle looks set to be continue even after the sale, with a Florida-based spokesman for the reclusive Mr Fischer refusing even to speculate on the purchase.

He said: "We have a policy of strict ‘no comment’ on any issues regarding Mr Fischer’s private life, and this will be maintained."

The estate agent Re-Max handled the sale, which had attracted a number of hoax bids before Mr Addison finally stepped in to secure the deal.

Lee Castle is set in 260 acres of Clyde Valley countryside in South Lanarkshire and is rich in history, with Robert the Bruce and Oliver Cromwell both reputed to have stayed there.

Mr Fischer paid 1,556,037 for the castle, which has 14 bedrooms, six bathrooms, four reception rooms, a great hall, ballroom, conference room, private chapel and heated swimming pool.

Strict confidentiality agreements, however, have prevented estate agents from revealing even the smallest details of the sale.

One hint as to why Mr Fischer has bought a Scottish castle can perhaps be found in his middle name, and could be another attempt by an American to trace his Celtic roots.

Dr Martin McGregor, of Glasgow University, an expert on the history of Gaelic Scotland, said the name McElroy was used both by the Gaelic Scots and the Irish.

"The name is not exclusively Scots or Irish, but would have been used by both nationalities. Its literal translation is the son of the red-haired lad, and can be traced back over several hundred years."

Although it is believed that Mr Fischer, of Naples, Florida, visited the castle when considering his purchase prior to signing the deal, it is not known when he plans a return trip to Lanarkshire.