Jessica Irving (Daughter)
Identity
Jessica Irving is David Irving's youngest daughter, living with
Benté Hogh in London. Born sometime around 1993 (turns 14 on December 7, 2007). She represents a central concern and bright spot in DI's life throughout 2007.
Living Situation
- Primary Residence: Flat 15, 50 Sloane Street, London SW1X 9SN with Benté Hogh
- School: Hammersmith area school
- Father: David Irving (weekend visits and financial support)
Key Characteristics in 2007
Academic Brilliance
- Demonstrates exceptional vocabulary and intelligence
- Awarded instant £5 for using "infanticide" correctly in context (2007-01-27, London)
- Attends quality schools funded by her father
- School fees in 2007: £3,900, nearly equal to a £4,100 legacy DI received
Technology Skills
- Owns an Intel Mac laptop
- Helps troubleshoot technical problems
- Active on computer, sometimes staying up late
Relationship with Father
- Regular weekend visits when DI is in London
- Father provides substantial pocket money (typically £20-50 per visit)
- Enjoys meals at Spaghetti House and other restaurants
- Shows interest in historical subjects (fascinated by 1940 Life magazine)
Significant Events in 2007
Madrid Visit (Spring 2007)
Jessica spent time in Madrid with
Paloma Irving, which both she and Paloma remember fondly. Paloma noted: "Jessica still speaks in glowing terms of her Madrid stay" (2007-05-14).
Brighton Trip (2007-05-29)
DI took Jessica to Brighton where he needed to get fingerprints for his Canadian police report (required for US visa application). They traveled by train (£18 total), had seafront food, and Jessica enjoyed time on the pebble beach.
Weekend at Windsor (2007-11-17 to 2007-11-18)
Jessica's first visit to Lake End House:
- Initially hesitant about visiting ("no more blubbering"), but "loves it" once there
- Demonstrated impressive gymnastics skills on the trampoline
- Emptied shampoo from DI's bathroom despite having her own supplies
- Watched Dr Who videos with her father
- Father found it "such a delight having her here at weekends"
Christmas Planning (2007-12-07)
Jessica turns 14, with DI preparing cash gifts and arranging celebrations.
Family Dynamics
Relationship with Benté
- Lives primarily with Benté Hogh
- Sometimes acts as intermediary between Benté and DI
- Reports back to Benté about activities with father
- Affected by ongoing tension between parents
Interactions with Extended Family
- Curious about Réka Antal's pregnancy, asking "Is it yours?" about the baby (2007-05-29)
- Aware of family complexities but generally kept out of adult conflicts
Personality Traits
Intelligence and Maturity
- Described as "real fun to be with, and hoity-toity sometimes"
- Can be "cheeky and hostile" when in bad moods
- Shows stress about school and family situations
- Demonstrates good judgment and common sense
Technology and Independence
- Manages her own laptop and troubleshooting
- Financially aware (asks about costs of activities)
- Independent travel to Brighton and other locations
Financial Support
DI provides substantial financial support including:
- Regular pocket money (£20-50 per visit)
- School fees (£3,900 annually)
- Technology (Mac laptop, repairs)
- Entertainment and dining expenses
Notable Quotes
About Jessica's intelligence (2007-01-27):
"when she used the word 'infanticide' in the right context another Instant Award of five pounds on top of that."
About Madrid visit (2007-05-14):
"Jessica still speaks in glowing terms of her Madrid stay."
About Windsor house visit (2007-11-17):
"No more blubbering, she loves it."
Jessica's practical attitude (2007-09-01):
"Keep me out of it." (regarding parents' relationship issues)
About Réka's pregnancy (2007-05-29):
"She then asked, 'Is it yours?' I replied that regrettably it is not. She seemed sad too at that answer."
Cross-References
Notes
Jessica represents both hope and complexity in David Irving's life during 2007. Her intelligence, independence, and affection for her father provide emotional grounding during his difficult transitional year, while her living situation with Benté creates ongoing logistical and emotional challenges. Her development into a thoughtful teenager is carefully documented throughout the diary.