Frank Warren held by VAT man

Frank Warren's colourful rise from bookmaker's son to boxing promoter took another twist yesterday when he was arrested yesterday by Customs and Excise officers investigating alleged VAT evasion.

Mr Warren and another man were held during raids in Essex and Hertfordshire. Both men were being questioned as inquiries continued.

Mr Warren's office refused to comment on his arrest but said a statement would be made later.

Since making his name as a boxing promoter, Mr Warren has branched out and now owns Bedford rugby union club. He has also been involved in publishing, television production, the leisure industry and property.

His biggest investment was the London Arena Stadium in the capital's Docklands. It has staged pop concerts as well as sporting events since its official opening in 1989.

Also in that year, Mr Warren, a father-of-four, was shot outside the Broadway Theatre in Barking, east London, one bullet missing his heart by an inch. Terry Marsh, the boxer, was acquitted of trying to murder his former manager.