THE END of a marriage is inevitably a painful, sad affair.

When it happens between a high-profile couple it is always the subject of much public scrutiny and comment.

Yesterday the Evening Press published one man's personal comments about the break-up of the Hon Simon Howard and his wife Annette, of Castle Howard fame.

Despite some speculation and rumour in recent months, the couple's impending split came as a shock to most local people.

Burke's Peerage publishing director Harold Brooks-Baker's opinion that the break-up would be a good thing - on financial grounds - for the future of Castle Howard was a strictly personal and extreme view.

The Evening Press neither shares this view nor welcomes the couple's parting. We are sorry if Mr Brooks-Baker's views added to that distress.

Simon and Annette Howard have worked hard to establish Castle Howard as one of the foremost country houses and estates of Britain.

Witness the huge numbers who visit the house and grounds every year and the array of activities and events planned to mark the 300th anniversary this year of the house known forever as Brideshead because of the famous television series filmed there.

The Howards have put much effort into securing the future of the expensive stately pile, and for that they must be applauded.

Their differences as a couple are for them to work out.

The announcement of their marriage breakdown came after much soul-searching. They have told the world they are about to part - now it is up to them what they do with their personal lives.

After a public statement revealing their decision to part, Simon and Annette Howard declared no further statement would be issued on the subject.

They were, in effect, asking to be left alone to sort out their differences away from the glare of the public spotlight.

Such a task is difficult enough for ordinary folk who do not have to worry that every move will hit the headlines.

As public figures their lives are open to public interest, but we hope the Howards can overcome the pressures long enough to resolve their futures.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.