The actor Kate Winslet and her children were among guests who escaped after lightning from a tropical storm set fire to Sir Richard Branson's Caribbean holiday home, destroying the building.

Among those also staying at Great House on Necker, in the British Virgin Islands, were Branson's 90-year-old mother, Eve, and his daughter, Holly.

"Around 20 people were in the house and they all managed to get out and they are all fine," said Branson, who was at another property nearby with his wife and son. "We had a really bad tropical storm with winds up to 90mph. A big lightning storm came around 4am and hit the house," he added.

"My son Sam rushed to the house and helped get everyone out. Kate Winslet, her boyfriend and her family were there and Holly and some of her friends were also staying. My mother was there and they managed to get her out and she is fine.

"The main house is completely destroyed and the fire is not yet completely out. My office was based in the house and I have lost thousands of photographs, which is very sad."

Branson has owned Necker since the 1980s. As well as serving as a Branson family holiday base, it can be hired out – at considerable cost.