Although Sir Richard Branson has spent years fighting off competition from the likes of Alan Sugar to be the poster boy for British business, in a shock move, he has chosen to sell up and move permanently to Necker Island.
The isle, located in the Caribbean has just been renovated, Necker was given a luxury makeover after being left ravaged in August of 2011, when a bolt of lightning caused a huge blaze.
Branson bought the paradise retreat during in the 1970s.
Titanic actress Kate Winslet, who was holidaying on Necker at the time, saved Branson’s mother from the fire.
In total, the blaze lasted for three days and left much of the island in complete devastation.
Forever a firm supporter in giving back to the British economy, Sir Branson is not heading overseas to deprive the UK of the tax from his massive earnings.
In April of this year Branson revealed “I don’t think people should be leaving the UK because of our tax system.”
Although the move will ensure that Branson receives “non-resident” status, Branson’s companies contribute a large amount in corporation tax and he will still pay tax on his UK income.
Branson’s companies also provide much needed jobs for 35,000 people in the UK alone.
A spokesperson for Branson spoke about the relocation, claiming; “This move is a lifestyle choice. The sun shines, he feels healthy and he travels around the world doing what he wants.”
Official land registry documents have revealed that Branson’s luxury UK home and surrounding estate in Oxfordshire was bought by his two children, Sam and Hollie.
Their generous dad sold them the property for just £1.35million, a bargain price, considerably less than the estate is worth.
The luxury isle of Necker [GETTY]
This move is a lifestyle choice. The sun shines, he feels healthy and he travels around the world doing what he wants
– A spokesperson for Branson
Branson’s Virgin empire spans many industries all over the globe.
Not satisfied with mastering telecommunications, balloon flights, airlines, health clubs – Branson is soon thought to be expanding further.
A team of Virgin scientists is currently researching into space travel, many wacky celebrities are keen to be a passenger on one of the Virgin rockets.
It is reported that Emile Sande has been booked as in flight entertainment, for those passengers who want a soulful soundtrack to their space travel.
With a fortune is estimated at a whopping £2.9 billion, Forbes magazine listed Sir Richard Branson as the Uk’s sixth wealthiest man.
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