A property developer today told a High Court judge that two of the UK’s best-known businessmen had “infringed and diminished” his rights as a director in a company which owns three of London’s most famous hotels.

Patrick McKillen, who comes from Belfast and is based in Dublin, said twins Sir David and Sir Frederick Barclay had "engaged in a scheme" to take control of Coroin — the company which owns Claridge's, the Connaught and the Berkeley.

Mr McKillen was giving evidence on the second day of a High Court trial in London after taking legal action and claiming that he had been a victim of "unlawfulness" and "unfairly prejudicial conduct".

The Barclay brothers, who grew up in London, deny Mr McKillen's allegations and say he is trying to tarnish their reputations and embarrass them.

Mr McKillen told judge Mr Justice David Richards in a written witness statement: "Since at least January 2011, the Barclay brothers and their interests have been engaged in a scheme to take over the company and in doing so I believe they have infringed and diminished my rights as a shareholder and director."

He said the Barclay brothers' objective was to "oust" him from Coroin.

PA