A CONTROVERSIAL businessman whose Ripponden property was torched by arsonists has walked free from court.

Kitchen salesman Vance Miller was targeted for what was described as the biggest UK raid by trading standards involving 130 officers.But Judge Jonathan Foster threw out the allegations and cleared him of fraud at Manchester Crown Court. His trial started in September and has cost taxpayers millions.

Mr Miller, 44, has previously faced criminal charges for his business operations and other matters. He also lost £800,000 when his uninsured property, Great Mans-head, off Blue Ball Road, was torched in 2006.

He was defending himself against allegations that his Oldham firm duped customers by passing off chipboard as solid wood.

But Judge Foster ruled the case was an abuse of process, there was no case to answer and criticised Oldham Trading Standards.

He said the 2006 decision to investigate was not based on any reliable material.

"Prior to the raid only one customer was interviewed," said Judge Foster.

"However, there remain a core of complainants who could be properly described as being misled by advertisements."

Judge Foster's finding of fact ruled the investigation was flawed, Oldham Trad-ing Standards (OTS) failed to analyse material available and the raid was oppressive and unfair. He also said there was no evidence of defraud for gain nor of a concerted dishonest action.

"Some may think this trial has been a waste of money. I consider the trial process has been vindicated.

"It was only by the examination of the detail that the facts emerged," said Judge Foster. "OTS embarked upon and continued an inherently weak and misconceived prosecution."

Co-defendants Nichola Brodie, 33, Sadiya Hussain, 29, and Alan Ford, 45, were also cleared.

Charlie Parker, Oldham Council's chief executive, said: "We are disappointed by the decision but this was an extremely complex and groundbreaking case.

"We have decided not to appeal and are now establishing a review."