Fight

Deepjoy. The founder of Kids Company, Camila Batmanghelidjh, is trying to call the Insolvency Service's bluff over disqualification as a de facto director of the collapsed charity.

She's being advised by James Nicholl, a partner at Gunnercooke LLP (a self-described 'challenger' law firm). He's issued a statement saying that "If ever there were a modern-day witch trial then this is it. Ms Batmanghelidjh is a powerful and charismatic woman who challenged the establishment.

"She repeatedly pointed out to government departments that destitute children were being failed. For 20 years she tirelessly raised money for these children. Now government is trying to silence her by trashing her reputation with trumped up allegations."

Mr Nicholls' claims the Insolvency Service "has decided to make maximum publicity out of seeking to disqualify the well-meaning and generally competent trustees of an amazing charity".

The eight 'official' directors of the charity, including BBC presenter and editor Alan Yentob, have been given until next Wednesday to accept a slightly reduced ban, or face court proceedings brought by the Insolvency Service. They are being advised by Bates Wells Braithwaite.