Fraud-accused ShelterBox founder's sacking 'a mistake'

Tom Henderson (pictured), his son John, and Darren Gervis are on trial at the Old Bailey accused of conspiracy to commit fraud

The sacking of a fraud-accused charity founder was a mistake, a former director told the Old Bailey.

Lasse Petersen said he was "surprised at the overzealous actions" of the ShelterBox board when Tom Henderson was forced to step down over an alleged conflict of interest.

Mr Henderson, 64, of Helston, Cornwall, is accused of conspiracy to commit fraud, which he denies.

Mr Petersen told the court he had "every confidence" in the defendant.

The trial has been told the charity paid large sums of money to companies linked to Mr Henderson's son John, for tents, wood-burning stoves and utility tools.

'The next Oxfam'

Mr Petersen, the charity's former international director, said: "Having worked with Tom for many years and witnessing his conduct and integrity and motivations over an extended period I had every confidence in Tom Henderson and that issues would be satisfactorily resolved.

He said he "strongly disapproved" of the decision to suspend and then dismiss Tom Henderson in 2012.

"The primary aim was to grow Shelterbox and we really thought there was an opportunity for ShelterBox to become the next Oxfam," Mr Peterson continued.

He told the court via video link, an investigation "had found no evidence of wrongdoing and any efforts to remove Tom would be detrimental to the charity".

Mr Petersen's Linkedin profile states he worked for the charity from 2007 until 2012 as its international director.

It is alleged the Hendersons brought in Darren Gervis, 42, to help hide the fraud when trustees of the charity began to ask questions.

John Henderson, 35, from Hayle, Cornwall, is accused of conspiracy to commit fraud.

Mr Gervis, from Beaminster, Dorset, is accused of trying to conceal John Henderson's involvement once questions were raised. All defendants deny the charges.

The trial continues.