'Apprentice' hopeful 'on bail for fraud'

A contestant on the new series of The Apprentice is currently on police bail following fraud allegations.

Christopher Farrell, a 29-year-old mortgage broker, was arrested on suspicion of fraud over alleged financial irregularities, Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed.

PA reports that the case is understood to relate to making a false representation via cheque or card.

Yesterday, it was revealed that Farrell had failed to disclose a conviction he had received for two counts of possession of an offensive weapon.

A statement from Talkback Thames, which produces the business competition, said: "Filming of the upcoming series of The Apprentice commenced on September 10, 2009 and concluded prior to Christmas.

"Recently police made us aware that Mr Farrell is the subject of a fraud investigation and that he had been arrested and bailed on August 4.

"The arrest took place eight months after filming had concluded and no charges have yet been brought in this case."