Edmonds in damages claim against bank

NOEL EDMONDS has launched a £50 million compensation claim against Lloyds Banking Group, claiming he has suffered “deep distress and public humiliation” caused by fraud at the hands of former HBOS Reading staff.

Lawyers for the TV host have written to Lloyds boss Antonio Horta-Osorio demanding payment for “immense economic loss” following the HBOS fraud scandal.

A group of corrupt HBOS financiers were jailed earlier this year for carrying out a £245 million loans scam that destroyed several businesses, before they squandered the profits on highend prostitutes and luxury holidays.

Lloyds said last month that it would begin making compensation offers to HBOS fraud victims in May from a £100 million pot, with payments expected to begin in June.