The founder of the Sherlock Holmes Museum, John Aidiniantz, is embroiled in a fresh legal battle with his siblings over a £1m house in Battersea, as a decade-long family feud over the museum's assets continues. The dispute, which has already cost over £2.5m in legal fees and court orders, has seen more than 100 court appearances.
The museum at 221B Baker Street, set up in 1989, has been described as a 'goldmine', attracting tourists worldwide. Mr Aidiniantz, 66, is the sole director of the company that owns it, Rollerteam Ltd. His siblings, Linda Riley, Stephen Riley, and Jenny Decoteau, were previously involved but the relationship collapsed in 2012.
The latest case concerns a house in Parkgate Road, Battersea, bought in 1997 for their mother, Grace Aidiniantz, and Stephen, who has lived there for 25 years. John's company claims Stephen has no right to remain and wants vacant possession. However, Stephen and Linda argue he was promised a 'home for life'.
In 2013, a settlement agreement saw John become sole owner of the museum, with promises of £1m each to Linda and Jenny, and the house placed in trust for Grace and Stephen. But Stephen now says he was never told he would have to leave after their mother's death. The judge is expected to rule later.
