Ben Fogle pays tribute to late castaway 'who found joy after losing millions'

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12 hours ago

Ben Fogle pays tribute to late castaway 'who found joy after losing millions'
David Glasheen, one of the original castaways who featured in the Channel 5 documentary series New Lives in the Wild, has passed away at the age of 81
Ben Fogle features in hit show New Lives in the Wild
(Image: Channel 5 )
Ben Fogle has paid tribute to the late David Glasheen, a former millionaire who became known for his appearance on Channel 5's New Lives in the Wild.
The news broke over the weekend that the ex-stockbroker had died at the age of 81, after becoming well-known for his simple way of life.
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David led a reclusive existence on Restoration Island, off North East Australia, with only his dog Quassi for company until the dingo was tragically killed by a snake bite in 2018.
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Following the loss of his fortune during the Black Monday stock market crash, which saw the market drop by 22% in just two days, Glasheen moved to the remote island in 1997.
Ben Fogle visited David Glasheen in his Channel 5 docu-series
(Image: Channel 5 )
Television presenter Ben, 51, has now shared a moving homage to David, conveying his sadness at the passing of the one-time gold mining magnate and real estate tycoon, reports Gloucestershire Live.
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"He was one of the first Wildmen I visited for New Lives in the Wild," Fogle wrote in a caption on Instagram. "He lived alone on Restoration Island in North Eastern Australia with just his beloved dog/dingo cross, Quassi for company.
"Dave lost his multi-million pound fortune overnight and on a whim relocated to the secluded Restoration Island where he discovered joy in tranquility and isolation.
"He truly was one of a kind and I feel so lucky to have met him a few times and spent time with him on his little Australian paradise."
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Ben then shared: "It saddens me that so many of the folk I have met over the years are passing away but it is also a reminder of the value and preciousness of life.
Martin Clunes travels the globe meeting characters that have formed extraordinary relationships with animals
(Image: ITV )
"Make the most of this short time we have. Dave was 81 and lived the richest life I know. Dave found true happiness when he lost his millions and reconnected with nature."
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He ended his tribute with a green love heart emoji, adding: "Rest in Peace Dave."
David had previously made known his wish to die on the isolated island, devoid of modern conveniences like electricity, fresh water, or internet.
In a conversation from June 2017, David had stated: 'I want to die here – where else would I?
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"This is my heaven on earth. 'When I came here I was sick of money – money is what makes people sick – and my marriage had broken apart.
"But being on your own you do miss intelligent conversation and the physical contact of other people."