Bamber Gascoigne inherits 50-bed home from his elderly aunt

Bamber Gascoigne, 80, has been left a 50-room stately home by his aunt Ex-University Challenge host says he inherited the property 'by accident' West Horsley Place near Leatherhead in Surrey could be worth 10million Property has its roots in 11th century and has been visited by royalty

By David Wilkes for the Daily Mail

Published: 17:52 EST, 22 March 2015 | Updated: 05:48 EST, 23 March 2015

Whem he hosted University Challenge, his catchphrase was Your starter for ten.

But the stakes have suddenly become higher for Bamber Gascoigne after he unexpectedly inherited an historic mansion from an elderly aunt.

He was stunned to be left 50-bedroom West Horsley Place in Surrey by the Duchess of Roxburghe, one-time society beauty and a goddaughter of George Vs wife Queen Mary.

Bamber Gascoigne, seen in a library at West Horsely house, has embarked on a mission to save the crumbling estate, which could be worth 10million once the restoration has been completed

The Duchess Lady Mary Evelyn Hungerford Crewe-Milnes was also Mr Gascoignes godmother and had no children of her own. She died last year aged 99.

The grand country house dates from the 11th century, although most of it was built between the 15th and 18th centuries.

It had many visits from royalty, including one by Henry VIII, during which he enjoyed a 35-course lunch.

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Bamber Gascoigne inherits 50-bed home from his elderly aunt