Gambler denies race-fixing plot
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/uk/7087766.stm Version 0 of 1. A professional gambler has denied giving jockeys money in return for throwing races, or for tips. Miles Rogers told police that jockeys earned enough not to need his money. His comments were read out at the Old Bailey, where he is jointly accused with jockeys Kieren Fallon, Darren Williams and Fergal Lynch of being part of a "race-fixing" plot. Mr Rogers said he had "no relationship" with Mr Fallon, who has been British Champion Jockey six times. Mr Rodgers, 38, denies involvement in a plot to allow horses to lose in 27 races so he could win on bets. The three jockeys also deny charges of conspiracy between December 2002 and August 2004. Internet betting The businessman said he used internet Betfair betting accounts belonging to friends and family to put money on horses to lose. Asked by police if he had any favourite jockeys or trainers, he said: "I do not have a favourite. Six-times champion jockey Kieren Fallon denies conspiracy"Unfortunately, I am extremely mercenary. I support the Bank of England, as it were." He said he used someone else's account because he was superstitious and hoped it would change a run of bad luck. Mr Rodgers, who was being interviewed by police following his arrest in September 2004, was asked if he had a relationship with Mr Fallon. He told a detective: "I don't know him at all. I know him as well as I know you. I did not have any relationship with him at all. I really don't know the man." Asked if he had any financial dealings with him, Mr Rodgers replied: "No." He said he spoke occasionally on the phone to Mr Williams but did not consider him a friend. 'Nice lad' Mr Rodgers said: "He's a nice lad but he's a bit boring." He said he exchanged calls with Fergal Lynch about once a week, but there were no financial dealings between them. They had found themselves on a plane to Malaga together by coincidence, he said. Lynch had played golf while he spent time with his girlfriend. He found Lynch's brother Shaun a "very knowledgeable guy" and would ask him about football matches. He added that they sometimes put bets on for each other at matches, he said. Mr Lynch's brother, Shaun Lynch, 38, of Belfast and barman Philip Sherkle, 42, of Tamworth, Staffordshire, also plead not guilty. Mr Rodgers also denies concealing the proceeds of crime. All the defendants are on bail. The trial continues. |