The son and daughter of the late Charles Napier are in dispute with their late father's girlfriend over his estate.

Mr Napier died in November 2008, aged 65. His children Stephen Napier and Catherine Brooks say their father died intestate as they have not been able to find a will.  If the court agrees, they will receive the whole of their late father's £350,000 estate, which includes a cottage in the Isle of Wight.

However, according to newspaper reports, the deceased's former girlfriend, Rowena Ferneley, alleges that Mr Napier made a will naming her as the sole beneficiary. Mrs Ferneley claims that the late Mr Napier had intended to give her the cottage in the Isle of Wight for use as a children's charity.

Mrs Ferneley says she did not see the will but believes that the late Mr Napier must have made one as he had been secretary of the local Citizens Advice Bureau.  She alleges that the deceased left a will in her favour, which Stephen and Catherine have "suppressed".

Stephen and Catherine acknowledge that they had been estranged from their father since he divorced their mother but deny the existence of a will.

The court will now make a decision based on the small amount of evidence available.

Wills made by a solicitor can be registered with  Certainty national will register, ensuring that they never go missing.

Tell us what you think

All documents should be read and used in accordance with the terms and conditions. This document is for your general information only and is not a detailed statement of the law. It is provided to you free of charge and should not be used as a substitute for specific legal advice. If you require specific legal advice please contact our helpline on 03700 86 86 86.