A Specsavers director has been suspended after wrongfully billing nearly £80,000 in expenses to the company, which included a Secret Santa gift and hotel stays.
Mark Edgar, 45, used the multinational optician's money to pay for taxis, car repairs, meals and hotel stays when tensions were high at home with his partner and baby.
When challenged about his claims at a disciplinary hearing, the qualified hearing aid dispenser - who was also a partner in the firm - said 'there was no harm in trying'.
The director, who joined the retail chain in 2005, began his expenses claims scheme when he began working at a branch in Edgware Road, London, it was heard.
Initially, Edgar began his string of claims so he could make payments to his ex-wife to support their children, the hearing was told.
