No verdict in fraud trial of Shelterbox founder Tom Henderson

Tom Henderson started Shelterbox in his garage

The jury at the trial of Shelterbox charity founder Tom Henderson has been discharged after failing to reach a verdict on fraud charges.

Mr Henderson, from Helston, Cornwall, was jointly accused of conspiracy to commit fraud with his son John, from Hayle and Darren Gervis, of Beaminster.

The Old Bailey jury was discharged after failing to reach a verdict following seven days of deliberations.

The prosecution has yet to decide whether to ask for a re-trial.

Tom and John Henderson and Darren Gervis all denied conspiracy to commit fraud during the 44-day trial.

It had been alleged that between 2007 and 2012, Tom Henderson, the then chief executive of Shelterbox, ensured supply contracts, including stoves and multi-tools went to his son's companies without proper tendering.

The Crown Prosecution Service has 15 days to decide whether to seek a re-trial.