Thai Beautician Battles British Lover’s Sons in High-Stakes Inheritance Dispute
In a dramatic legal battle that could rival any soap opera, a Thai beautician is taking her late British lover’s sons to the London High Court, demanding a share of his £400,000 estate. The case has captivated onlookers as it delves into promises, property, and financial claims tied to a cross-border romance.
Kanokporn Nattachai, 40, traveled from Thailand to face Simon and David Burrage, the sons of Roger Burrage, a British builder who tragically took his own life in January at the age of 75. Kanokporn claims she is owed nearly £200,000 (8.42 million baht), citing promises made by Burrage during their relationship in Thailand, where they lived together in a luxurious seaside villa in Hua Hin.
The villa, built by Burrage during his time in Thailand, features three bedrooms, stunning mountain views, expansive grounds, and a pool. Kanokporn, who now lives alone in the property, valued between £100,000 and £240,000, argues that she played a significant role in Burrage’s life, both personally and professionally. She claims she lent him £200,000 to support his business and insists she deserves a portion of his estate, as his will did not provide her with “adequate financial provision.”
However, Burrage’s sons are contesting her claims. Their barrister, Lydia Pemberton, argues that Kanokporn received substantial gifts during Burrage’s lifetime, including the villa and financial support to open her beauty parlor. They maintain that these gifts fulfilled any obligations to her and deny that their father borrowed money from her. Pemberton also suggests that Burrage, who struggled with mental health issues in his final years, was vulnerable and may have been exploited.
Kanokporn’s solicitor, Manoon Junchai, paints a different picture, portraying the relationship as a deep emotional and financial partnership. He claims Burrage promised Kanokporn financial security and that her contributions to his life and business justify her claim. Junchai argues that failing to honor these promises would be unjust.
The case has also raised questions about the couple’s financial dealings. Pemberton disputes Kanokporn’s claim of lending £200,000, pointing out that her financial independence contradicts her narrative. She notes that any money transferred was tied to properties in Kanokporn’s name due to Thai ownership laws, rather than being contributions to Burrage’s UK business.
Adding another layer of complexity, the Burrage brothers have applied for a “security for costs” order, which would require Kanokporn to deposit funds to cover their legal fees if her claim fails. Judge Julia Clark is currently reviewing the request, with a decision expected soon.
As the legal drama unfolds, the case highlights the complexities of cross-border relationships and estate disputes. It raises questions about the weight of verbal promises made in romantic relationships and the challenges of interpreting a will drafted years earlier. The outcome could set a precedent for for similar cases, leaving observers eagerly awaiting the court’s final decision.
credit Daily Mail