TV Dragon's firm in fraud investigation

After raising the alarm to the authorities, a TV star’s company has become the subject of a serious financial investigation.

A spokesman for Duncan Bannatyne’s company, Bannatyne Group, released a statement revealing that the police are 
investigating a serious financial matter that has allegedly affected the firm. The group is understood to have
raised the alarm to the authorities.

When asking the Durham Police for confirmation on the matter, it replied: “The investigation involves an alleged multi-
million pound fraud on a Darlington-based business,”

The authority also stated that an arrest was made, but the individual was released on bail soon after.

On the front of the Police’s conduct thus far, the Bannatyne Group noted: "We are grateful for their thoroughness and professionalism,”

"We have no comment to make except to say that it does not affect the current operation of our successful business."

Duncan Bannatyne, 65, is best known for his 'dragon’ investor persona on the hit BBC TV show Dragon’s Den.

He established the Bannatyne Group in 1996, which runs a portfolio of Health Clubs, Spas and Hotels throughout the UK. The head office is based in Darlington.