‘Shy man’ Van values privacy

Privacy and sea views were important considerations for singer Van Morrison and his wife Michelle when they decided to live in Kilross House, Sorrento Rd, Dalkey, Co Dublin, the High Court has heard.

The house, previously owned by businessman Harry Crosbie, was put up for auction in 1996 and the day before the auction, Van and Michelle visited the house but only got access to the garden, Ms Morrison told the High Court yesterday.

Ms Morrison, to whom Mr Morrison transferred sole ownership of the house in 2009, said that, at the time he bought it, Van thought he might have a recording studio there. However, as plans were drawn up, it was decided it would be a family home, she said.