Despite the recent devastation when lightning struck his privately owned island in the Caribbean, Richard Branson is still determined to host his daughter Holly’s wedding to shipbroker Freddie Andrews there in December.

The stunning Necker Island was also the venue for his marriage 22 years ago. While the Branson family and their friends often stay at the idyllic £60million paradise location, it can also be rented for £34,000 a night and has been a choice marriage venue for the well-to-do.

Branson commented: “We have a wedding to celebrate in December and I can’t imagine giving my daughter’s hand in marriage anywhere other than on Necker Island beach.”

In true optimistic style, Branson has vowed to restore the main house to its former glory: “We want to rebuild the house as soon as we can… There’s a lot of damage but we’ll create something even more special out of the ruins.”

Branson has also said that even if the main house is not rebuilt in time, the wedding will go forward, even if it means guests being accommodated in more tents than had originally been planned.

There is speculation that Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge might be among the A-list guests who will attend the upcoming nuptials.