Sarah This is the Phoenix stop. We will tell you about our family connections, and the revival of Powerscourt after a catastrophic fire. Anthony My family, the Wingfields lived here for 350 years. My grandfather, rafe sold this estate to Sarah and Alex’s grandparents - Rafe and Gwen Slazenger. Sarah Anthony’s father Mervyn Wingfield later married my aunt Wendy Slazenger. So we three are first cousins.THE SLAZENGERS Alex Our mutual grandfather, Rafe Slazenger was an engineer. He loved tinkering with things. His father Albert Slazenger invented the modern tennis ball. Rafe wanted to use Powerscourt waterfall to generate electricity. Sarah Gwen, was a passionate farmer who relished outdoor life. Alex Together they worked tirelessly to restore the house and gardens for 13 years. THE FIRE Sarah In 1974 they invited journalists to a private tour before opening the house to the public. Late that November evening a violent storm set in. Alex An electric bell from our great grandmother’s bedroom began ringing urgently in the night. A fire had begun to rip through the house, triggering the bell. Sarah That simple bell saved countless lives and amazingly no-one died in the fire. Anthony A house that had stood since 1730 was destroyed in 4 hours. It was reduced to a smoking shell by an accidental chimney fire. We can see its exposed walls inside today. Our priceless family heirlooms, furniture and paintings were lost forever. Alex Our grandparents were heartbroken. For over 20 years the house remained a ruin. MICHEAL’S VISION Sarah My father, Dr. Michael Slazenger was a medical doctor. In 1990 he took a year-long break from his career to consider what to do. Alex It was his vision to transform Powerscourt into a sustainable business to ensure its long term survival. In 1996 the house was re-built as you see it now. Sarah It was far from certain our family could succeed in maintaining Powerscourt. Nearly 7 million people have experienced the gardens since 1962. So thank you for your visit. Alex You are helping one of the most beautiful places on Earth to flourish.