The owner of an auction business at the centre of an investigation involving allegations of missing money and antiques has contacted the police.

Chris Sidebotham is now expected to return to the UK in the new year to discuss his business affairs with officers.

The 49-year-old was the owner of Walker, Barnett and Hill when it suddenly closed its operations at Cosford Auction Rooms near Wolverhampton in October.

Police are investigating 16 complaints about Walker, Barnett and Hill.

Some people claim to be owed cash or to have lost heirlooms, worth up to £5,000, that were passed to the firm to be sold.

Mr Sidebotham, who used to live in Bridgnorth, is thought to be spending the Christmas and New Year holiday in Italy.

A man claiming to be Mr Sidebotham rang the Express & Star following an article about customer dissatisfaction with the activities of his former company.

He said: “This story has caused a lot of distress to my family. It has not been an easy period, with the business went on the slide, but funds will be made available to cover any debts.”

He added that he intends to find alternative premises for Walker, Barnett and Hill in the area.

He said: “I have not done a runner.”

He declined to arrange a face-to-face meeting and asked for contact details of police involved in the inquiry.

PC Steve Hibbs, of Shifnal police, said: “I can confirm that Mr Sidebotham has been in contact with us and inquiries are continuing.”

Cosford Auction House is owned by Bob and Pat Wood, and the lease was due to expire on January 4. The keys to the property were pushed through their door on October 3.

Mr and Mrs Wood insist they are owed unpaid rent and other money connected to Walker, Barnett and Hill.

Mrs Wood said: “Since he left, we have had a lot of inquiries from people looking for him.”