Updated government list reveals Stratford-on-Avon estates which have not yet been claimed after owners died
MILLIONS of pounds goes unclaimed each year after people die without leaving their money to anyone.
Who knows, perhaps Great Uncle Fred, who no-one has heard from for years, left a country mansion and a pile of cash and is just waiting for you to make a claim.
As a government list updated last week revealed, there are currently more than 6,000 unclaimed estates, with at least 66 of them having a Warwickshire connection. The Herald has identified six that mention Stratford district (see box).
When someone dies with no will or known family, their property passes to the Crown as ownerless property (or ‘bona vacantia’). It can be any kind of property, such as buildings, money or personal possessions. You could be entitled to a share of a deceased relative’s property (estate) if you’re a relative.
The full list of unclaimed estates, and instructions on how to make a claim, is published online at www.gov.uk/government/statistical-data-sets/unclaimed-estates-list.
Richard Bate, from legal firm Batemans, explained what happens to the unclaimed assets: “Estates can remain on the unclaimed list for a considerable time.
“There is a general period of up to 30 years during which claims can be made against the estate. This lengthy period allows ample time for potential heirs to discover their claim to an estate and to gather the necessary documentation and legal representation to support their claim.
“If, after 30 years, no rightful heir has been identified, the estate permanently reverts to the Crown. The assets are then transferred to the Treasury where they are held and may be used for public benefit.
“This final step ensures that the assets from unclaimed estates are eventually put to use, rather than remaining stagnant.”
Mr Bate continued: “Understanding this process is essential for anyone who might be researching their family history or suspects they could be the heir to an unclaimed estate.
“It’s advisable for potential claimants to act within the 30-year window and to seek legal advice to navigate the complexities of claiming an unclaimed estate.
“This not only helps in securing their rightful inheritance but also aids in closing the chapter on the deceased’s unclaimed legacy.”
Unclaimed estates with Stratford district connection
James Charles Brown, born 27/01/1913 Snitterfield, Stratford-upon-Avon, died 01/01/2000 Rugby Warwickshire
John Richard Kendrick, born 09/06/1935 Birmingham, died 25/07/2006 Stratford upon Avon, batchelor
David Gould, born 12/01/1956 Stratford Upon Avon, died 08/04/2021 Warwick. Information with Alsters Kelley Solicitors
Bronislawa Bereznowski, died 08/04/1996 Kineton
John Duval, born11/07/1939 Liverpool Merseyside, died 25/05/2015 Alcester. The Division holds a photocopy of the marriage certificate in the name of John Timothy Duval . The event took place on 15/10/1976 in Birmingham. Information with Moore & Tibbits Solicitors
Irene Paula Wilmot-Smith, born 18/12/1916 Rotherham south Yorkshire, died 26/09/2010 Alcester, spinster
