Each year we take time to reflect on the most interesting cases throughout the months. In 2025, Blanchards were interviewed on multiple occasions, featuring in The Times newspaper and welcoming new members to our growing team. Even after many years in the industry, we continue to be surprised by the cases we handle and challenges we navigate.
An Industry Challenge
The Bona Vacantia list was temporarily removed in July due to fraudulent claims. This was received as a shock to the probate industry as there was no prior indication of the removal. Blanchards continued to assist local authorities and public sector by tracing next of kin for unclaimed estates. Hopefully the Bona Vacantia list will return in 2026 with a long-term solution.
A Link To The Past
One interesting case we handled this year involved a relative of a famous UK serial killer. This case began looking into a public health funeral for a care home resident who had no known next of kin. As part of the investigation, we began building a family tree of the estate. During this process, we uncovered a link to a famous serial killer, which complicated efforts to identify additional beneficiaries. We recognise that this can present challenges when reaching out to relatives, particularly where surnames have been changed or individuals may be unaware of their family connection. This highlights how we approach beneficiaries when sensitive history can resurface.
Friends With Royalty
Blanchards was referred a case by the council to locate the next of kin named in a Will. Our genealogist began enquiries by contacting neighbours of the estate to gather information about possible family or friends. During these conversations, we learned surprising details about the deceased’s private lifestyle, including a friendship with the Queen and regular participation in outdoor shooting. When gaining access to the property, this was confirmed by photographs found within the home. The estate itself contained valuable possessions, including items of expensive jewellery and artwork.
Inside Probate Properties
Blanchards works with many estate properties to clear and value the possessions of the deceased. In one property, we discovered a hoarder collection of 30 bicycles stacked in a garage. At another property, the deceased had an extraordinary range of cricket memorabilia from books, postcards to caps. The collection was so extensive that the beneficiaries chose to donate it to a museum to showcase the items for the public.
Uncovering Heirs Through International Records
Blanchards provides nationwide and international genealogy services to help resolve complex inheritance cases where families are estranged or living abroad. In one case, we were tasked with tracing the next of kin for Mr. Smith, who died in Portugal with little information available. By piecing together records, contacting funeral directors and tracing relatives to the United States. We uncovered that Mr. Smith had used multiple names and relocated after separating from his spouse. The spouse was successfully located and since they never divorced, she remained as the legal next of kin.
Conclusion
As we step into 2026, we are celebrating another year of achievements and continued growth. 2026 will mark the 15th anniversary of Blanchards Inheritance Ltd. Blanchards has grown into a nationwide and international heir hunting and probate research firm. We wish you a happy new year and look forward to another year of reuniting families to rightful inheritances and solving cases across the globe. Please read our other blogs and follow us on LinkedIn for recent updates and news.
