Probate news: Man raises worries about legacy fundraising

A man carrying out the role of the executor on his mother-in-law's estate has expressed concern about after a number of charities sent him "begging letters" asking for donations from his late relative's properties.

Third Sector reported that Marcus Watkins, who works for Christina Medical Fellowship, said when his mother-in-law decided to make a will she left £20,000 to charitable causes, which she specified on a signed list.

However, Mr Watkins told the news source that since he and his sister-in-law were given probate on the will this year, 58 charities have been in touch with them asking for donations from the estate.

"I feel bombarded by these begging charities, which seem to presume we will ignore her wishes. They have upset me and my family at a difficult time, and have alienated us to their cause," he said.

Those who do want to leave money to charity in their will may, however, be spurred on by then government's Inheritance Tax Charity Relief initiative.

Published by Hannah Carr