Herm leaseholders Adrian and Pennie Heyworth, who feel it is time for others to take charge of the island. 0289384
HERM needs new investment, according to its tenants. Adrian and Pennie Heyworth are selling the lease after 28 years running the island.
When Mrs Heyworth’s father, Major Peter Wood, took it on in 1949, the island was derelict and the family has spent millions on the infrastructure. Upgrades have included the installation of electricity, a better water supply and a sewerage system and the creation of many of the roads, paths, beach cafes and other facilities used by thousands of visitors each year.
‘Herm is great, but perhaps having had the Heyworth family for 28 years it’s time for a change,’ said Mr Heyworth. ‘Perhaps it needs new ideas. It needs someone with probably greater wealth than we have to keep pace with the expectations of tourists today.’
That did not mean that there would be radical changes, he added. Consent would be needed from the Treasury and Resources Department and the Lt-Governor for the lease to be reassigned. Martel Maides has been instructed to find a buyer and the London agent is Knight Frank.
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2 Article Comments
I have enjoyed Herm Island for many years. It is a wonderful Haven in these times of rapid change, and I feel distraught at the thought that Adian and Penny Hayworth are leaving. I meet people staying on the island that have returned year after year for upto 30 years. I have the same intention provided it remains the same.
Together with my family, We have had many holidays in foreign climes but NOTHING beats Herm Island.
Good luck Adian and Penny and thank you for the most wonderful holidays we have ever had.
Richard + Pat Coleman
My first holiday was to Herm when I was six weeks old. I have happily visited since, and now do so with my own children. We hope that whoever takes on the lease of Herm respects the magic and innocence of the place.