Fortress Fergie

Sir Richard Branson told the Bulletin when he first bought the Son Bunyola estate in Banyalbufar on the west coast of the island five years ago that he wanted to transform it into one of the most luxurious hotels in the world. Thanks to a whole series of planning problems his dream remains on the drawing-board. So far all that has been built are two beach-side luxury villas. One is presently home to Sir Richard and his family while the Duchess of York and her two daughters are his neighbours for the week. The setting could not be more breath-taking. Surrounded by countryside, far from preying eyes and with its own private beach, the two villas are a real gem for those who can afford 7'000 pounds a week. The villas are so well hidden that it was unclear last night whether the Duke of York, Prince Andrew, had joined the party as rumoured. It was even said that Prince Charles could be staying there. Sir Richard Branson has constructed a paparrazzi free zone where the rich and famous can go and relax without being bothered by anyone. Yesterday, there was plenty of activity around the two villas and members of Scotland Yard's Royal Protection Squad were clearly visible. The Duchess of York and her two daughters arrived in Majorca on Monday and they were quickly taken to the Son Bunyola estate. It is likely that the Branson family arrived on the same day. No-one in the small village of Banyalbufar had a clue that there were such VIP visitors within their midst. It is more than likely that the visit would have remained a secret if the party hadn't ventured out on Wednesday for lunch at the El Olivo restaurant in Deia.