HENRY Howard, whose family seat was one of Britain's finest stately homes, Castle Howard, has died aged 58.
The oldest of the former BBC chairman Lord Howard of Henderskelfe's four children, he had suffered from poor health throughout his life and had been ill since before Christmas. He died on Thursday night.
His family have paid tribute to the "unique
ness" of the colourful eccentric and said he will be greatly missed.
Henry never married, and continued to live as a gentleman of leisure on the Castle Howard estate in North Yorkshire until his death.
His poor health had led to the decision that his brother Simon should take on the day-to-day running of the family seat, which is to
the north-east of York, near Malton.
A flag at Castle Howard was flying at half-mast at the end of last week in his memory.
His brother, Nicholas Howard, said: "The family are very sad to hear of the death of Henry. He had been ill since before Christmas so his death was not unexpected.
"Henry was not quite like anyone else and his uniqueness communicated itself to everyone he met. He will be missed greatly."
Castle Howard found fame as it is said to have been the inspiration for Evelyn Waugh's classic novel Brideshead Revisited, as well as the setting for the 1980 television version of the novel.
Building work on the stately home began at the turn of the 18th century, although the construction of Castle Howard took more than 100 years to complete, spanning the lifetimes of three earls and numerous architects and craftsmen.
The sprawling house remains a family home and nearly 200,000 members of the public visit the estate, which is the home to an impressive collection of paintings, porcelain and sculpture, every year.
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