The League Against Cruel Sports has dismissed its campaigns and communications director Steve Taylor for gross misconduct following a disciplinary investigation concerning expenses claims.

A League Against Cruel Sports spokesman said the charity has referred the case to the police and will not comment further until investigations are completed:

“The potential loss will not have a material effect upon the ability of the League to fulfil its objectives but we do take a 'zero tolerance' approach to any wrongdoing and for this reason we are co-operating fully with the police in their investigations. 

“We are pleased that our systems worked well in picking this matter up and we will do everything in our power to recover the sum concerned.”

The Charity Commission has also been informed, and in a statement said it was satisfied that the trustees of the charity are dealing with the matter appropriately.

Taylor’s deputy Louise Robertson will now become head of campaigns and communications at the League.

Robertson has a long history with the League and has worked for the charity from Scotland for over five years. She has been deputy head of the department for the last two years and will act up following the departure of Taylor.