MIKE CLARE

After selling Dreams in 2008 and before returning back to the bedding industry with Pillow World, Mike developed an unusual collection of properties such as old monasteries, castles and forts, spending several £m's doing them up and converting these iconic properties into hotels. The most interesting and exciting of these monuments was 'Solent Forts', a collection of three historic sea fortresses in the sea off Portsmouth; No Man's Fort, Spitbank Fort and Horse Sands Fort. 

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Solent Forts were the ultimate venues for any celebration, event or meeting. The Forts were rescued from various states of disrepair and were lovingly renovated and refurbished almost beyond recognition ... the upkeep, tenure and ownership has now passed on to new hands ... allowing Mike time to focus on a well deserved semi-retirement (hopefully!).