Solicitor David Layard Horsfall, 54, has been accused of involvement in frauds in which wealthy celebrity clients were allegedly duped by a self-styled Lord. The celebrities apparently included Princess Diana’s former dress designer, Elizabeth Emanuel reports the Mail.

The main allegations have been made against Edward Davenport, 43, a property developer who claims to be worth between £100million and £200million and uses the title "Lord" Davenport. According to the report, his claim to the title is also somewhat dubious. The fraud related to advanced fees paid by individuals as a deposit for loans of up to £250m. The loans were never received. Another of the alleged frauds was a price ramping scheme on properties being sold at auction. It is not clear from the report exactly what role David Layard Horsfall is accused of playing in the scams.

The hearing was heard in the City of London Magistrates’ Court. Davenport will appear at Southwark Crown Court in February.

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