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The tale revolves around a British family’s purchase of a private island near Nicaragua, plunging them into a struggle to reclaim it from local indigenous communities, culminating in tragedy. Initially chronicled in a 2002 Channel 4 documentary titled “No Going Back,” the family’s journey unfolds as they aim to transition from their mundane British life to the allure of Lime Clay Island, a 9.5-acre parcel on Nicaragua’s Mosquito Coast, acquired for £170,000 in 2000. However, the dream quickly unravels as they find themselves entangled in a historical land dispute.
A British family who bought a private island near Nicaragua and ended up in a battle to reclaim it from local indigenous people which ended in kidnapping and death
Upon settling on the island, tensions flare with locals, who view the territory as sacred heritage to be passed through generations. Despite efforts to convince authorities of their intentions to uplift the impoverished community, the family faces resistance. Environmental concerns further stoke the conflict, leading to protests and legal battles initiated by human rights advocates like Maria Acosta.
The shocking story of Hampshire-based mother Jayne Gaskin, (pictured) her husband Phil and her three children who trade their village home for a tropical paradise is told in a new true crime podcast by Wondery and Forest Sounds The Price of Paradise
The story of Jayne, a former Playboy Bunny Girl and croupier, her husband and children, Damien 13, James 11 and Cherry nine, captivated the nation in 2002 when they featured in Channel 4 documentary No Going Back
Once living on the island the family quickly clashed with locals, who claimed it was a sacred space that was only to be passed down through generations
As aspirations of transforming the island into a tourist destination take shape, financial strains escalate. Amidst the turmoil, accusations of racism and personal betrayals surface, complicating an already volatile situation. The family’s ordeal reaches a climax when they fall victim to a harrowing kidnapping orchestrated by masked assailants, one of whom is revealed to be Jayne’s former lover, Teodoro.
In a daring escape, they flee, enduring a perilous night in the wilderness before being rescued. However, the trauma takes a toll, particularly on Phil, whose health deteriorates rapidly. Despite Jayne’s determination to persevere, tragedy strikes as Phil succumbs to illness, prompting the family’s eventual departure from the island.
Years later, their harrowing tale resurfaces in “The Price of Paradise,” a gripping true crime podcast by Wondery and Forest Sounds, delving into the complexities of their ill-fated island venture.
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