'We doubt there are many places as well run': Barclay trustee insists Sark estate is not for sale

Trustees of the Barclay estate in Sark say they "doubt" that a bid to buy them out will be successful.

Last week, the Sark Property Company submitted a cash bid for the estate - which includes 80 residential dwellings, 20 commercial properties, four hotels, and 139 acres of land.

Christopher Beaumont, Director of the Sark Property Company and 23rd Seigneur of Sark who is behind the bid, has previously said he wants to "write a new chapter for the island" after a "difficult period in its history".

In a letter to the island's Conseillers dated 10 October, a trustee of the Barclay estate said: "There is no intention to sell the estate to the Sark Property Company unless there is a suitable offer received.

"The numbers reported in the Press are a fraction of the estate's truth worth and we doubt their ability to raise a suitable amount."

The trustee added: "The estate of Sark enjoyed its best year this year ... We doubt there are more places that are as well run.

"It is disappointing to see that others, including some of its own 'high profile' residents, value that so little."

Christopher Beaumont has responded by saying:

"Sark Property Company has submitted an offer for the estate that represents what we believe is fair market value plus a premium.

"That offer is valid for 30 days and we will not be commenting on the status of the bid until that 30-day period is over.

"Our bid is backed by cash, our investment case is solid, and our intention is to create the right environment for Sark to thrive."

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