50/14 Paul Roantree

Dear All

The last few weeks have been pretty traumatic not only for me, but many others on the forum.
It has come to our attention that there are a number of rumours circulating re Paul, his finances, his estate etc.
Paul's financial and domestic affairs are far from straightforward, and he was reluctant to address matters in advance of his death. We also feel uneasy going into too much detail in what is, after all, a pubic forum.

The reason for the money for the funeral being required is a lack of liquid assets and that at present we cannot be certain as to the total value of the estate. As anyone who has experience of tidying up another's affairs will understand, it can take weeks/months to effectively audit an individuals estate. Until the value is resolved we cannot sell off assets. Additionally Paul had made it very clear that he did not wish for his bikes to be sold.

We have taken advice from a solicitor and chartered accountant, who are also forum members. We have also asked them to provide some oversight in to how myself and others have addressed Paul's affairs, including such issues as the funding of the funeral, and associated financial considerations.

I must say that we have been pretty hurt by some of the suggestions of self interest, and a lack of care on our part, that have been made. I therefore suggest that any forum members who have such concerns, and are willing to put them in writing, address their comments via PM's to Cliveo or Bernie, who I have asked to monitor matters, and to ensure that we have acted properly in these arrangements. NB Cliveo is currently in hospital so its probably best to contact Bernie.

Once again, a huge thanks to all of you who have supported our efforts to give Paul the send off he deserves.