Geoff Hurst caught up in Spanish property deal scam

Football legend Sir Geoff Hurst is apparently caught up in a Spanish property scandal. The British press quotes him as being "full of remorse" and having been allegedly "used and abused" by the Royal Marbella Group, for whom he became a spokesperson and project ambassador. Hurst told the High Court on Monday that he had been deceived by a "cynical scheme" to con investors. Sir Geoff and his wife Lady Judith were apparently cheated out of an investment of almost €700,000 by the British business people behind the company, which he was also hired to promote. In the promotion for the project, Hurst, who appeared or allowed his name to be used in brochures and a DVD, was quoted as saying that he had found partners "who won't let me down." In five hours of testimony in the High Court, he admitted he had been "foolish.">Sir Geoff and six others are suing businessman Mark Cordner for £2million claiming that their rights over properties are now worthless because they were never built and, says the suit, Corner allegedly pocketed most of the investment cash. Hurst bought half a share in two flats at the complex but it turns out that neither Royal Marbella Group or its partners never owned the site. Cordner's erstwhile partner, Michael Hone, has disappeared without trace.

Sir Geoff also loaned Hone almost €400,000 to finance a deal. Against the advice of his solicitors. Although some of it has been paid back, the England World Cup star is still waiting for the remaining €125,000 six years later.

Mark Cordner denies deceit, and the High Court hearing continues.