Pop star took refuge in Hampshire

(First Edition)

A MILLIONAIRE property tycoon, Jack Dellal, confirmed yesterday that the pop singer Michael Jackson stayed at his secluded Hampshire home during his recent flight from the public eye.

The 35-year-old star was said to be Mr Dellal's guest at the Manor Farm estate at Brown Candover, near Basingstoke, during treatment for the addiction to painkillers that forced him to abandon his world tour.

In a prepared statement, Mr Dellal said: 'I was asked by staff of the Charter Clinic (in Chelsea, west London) whether I would let Michael Jackson stay in my country house while he underwent treatment. I was happy to help and received no payment.' He added: 'I did not meet Mr Jackson. He has left the country and I now consider the matter over.'

Jackson is back at his ranch in California where he is facing a civil suit over allegations that he sexually abused a 13-year-old boy.