McQueen's will shows his love for dogs, charities

[July 27, 2011]  LONDON (AP) -- The late fashion designer Alexander McQueen left most of his considerable fortune to charities but also left money to his siblings, household staff and for the upkeep of his dogs, according to documents made public Tuesday.

McQueen, one of the brightest stars in British fashion, committed suicide last year just days after his mother's death.

The documents show that McQueen, who was 40, left an estate worth just over 16 million pounds ($26 million).

He left 250,000 pounds each to his three sisters and two brothers, and 50,000 pounds each to his two-person household staff, his godson, and each of his nieces and nephews.

The animal lover left 50,000 pounds for the continual care of his dogs and donated 100,000 pounds each to two charities that help animals: the Battersea Dogs and Cats Home and the Blue Cross Animal Welfare Charity. Both provide care for abandoned animals and help find them homes.

Kim Hamilton, chief executive of the Blue Cross animal charity, said the group is "thrilled" with the bequest.

"It is a touching tribute to his obvious love for his dogs and his legacy will allow us to help many thousands more sick and homeless animals across the UK," she said.

McQueen also left 100,000 pounds each to the London Buddhist Center and the Terrence Higgins Trust, which helps promote sexual health and safe sex practices.

The designer, known for his edgy and artistic creations, left the bulk of his estate to his Sarabande charity with the suggestion that some money be used for scholarships at London's Central St. Martin's College of Art and Design.

He was one of the school's many famous graduates.

[Associated Press]

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