Middlesex CCC has recovered £100,000 that was wrongly paid to former CEO Richard Goatley before his resignation in 2021. However, the club has not commented on the Metropolitan Police’s decision not to press criminal charges, citing insufficient evidence of wrongdoing.
The dispute between Middlesex and Goatley has been long and contentious. In May 2024, the club reported him to the police, alleging he received £70,000 in unauthorised expenses. In response, Goatley filed a personal injury claim in the high court, accusing Middlesex of harassment. He had suffered a stroke in April 2021 during a committee meeting at Lord’s, which led to his resignation due to ill health. The club denies any wrongdoing.
Middlesex faced financial struggles, recording a £952,000 loss in 2021. Their net assets dropped from around £2 million to £179,000, partly due to incorrect pension contributions over 12 months, causing a £350,000 deficit. In 2023, the ECB placed the club under “special measures,” fining them £50,000 for financial irregularities and imposing a suspended points deduction.
A Met Police spokesperson acknowledged Middlesex’s fraud allegations but stated that after a thorough review, no criminal offences were identified. The case remains open should new evidence emerge.
Goatley welcomed the police’s findings, maintaining his innocence and confirming he will proceed with his civil claim against Middlesex. Meanwhile, the club expressed relief at recovering £57,000 in unauthorised cheques and £43,000 in pension payments. Middlesex credited the bank and insurance company for facilitating the refund but declined to comment on the police decision.
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