No One Hurt at Fire on Necker Island

While Three Moons yacht sat safely last night in the boat yard in Virgin Gorda, Hurricane Irene caused a major fire at Sir Richard Branson's beautiful Necker Island nearby. Winds up to 90mph howled during the storm. A big strike of lightening hit the main house around 4am on August 22nd. This "Great House" was built in 1982.

Richard's son Sam, 25, and nephew Jack rushed to the house and helped get everyone out. Locals have reported that Richard & wife Joan were on the island, but were staying in another house on the property when the fire broke out.

Several UK newspapers have reported: "It is understood that those in the 'Great House' may have included Richard & Joan's daughter Holly, 29, who is due to marry shipbroker Freddie Andrews on Necker Island in December.

Kate Winslet has received accolades for helping carry Richard's 90 year mother out of the main house to safety. Later Kate was quoted by Richard as saying, "she was wondering when a Director was going to shout CUT!". She and her children were staying on the island during the storm.

We certainly feel deep sadness that the Branson family lost "thousands of photographs and his ever famous notebooks" which were located in his office, based in the main house. But all his family, co-workers, friends & guests are well - "which in the end is all that really matters".  

Our thoughts and positive wishes are with them. We know the flag will proudly fly from the main house again as it does in our photo below made a couple of months ago.

We wish them well during this tough time.