AN American tycoon based in Hong Kong is at the centre of a controversy following his purchase of a centuries-old English estate for GBP10 million (HK$124 million).
Long-time local resident Robert Miller is expected to take control of the North Yorkshire region's massive Gunnerside Lodge in February.
The 13,000-hectare estate - a substantial chunk of Upper Swaledale - includes access to 2,025 hectares of prime fishing and sporting sites.
The ultra-conservative residents are suspicious. They say the tycoon must prove his 'commitment to the community' before he will be accepted.
Mr Miller has interests in Search International and Duty Free Shops Ltd. He is also involved with the Community Chest and the Conservatory of Music Boards.
He bought the estate from the chairman of the agricultural show in the village of Muker, Earl Peel, a descendant of the founder of the region's police service.