Controversial US TV evangelist Pat Robertson yesterday quit the board of British fashion group Laura Ashley amid fears his views could lead to a campaign of criticism against the company.

The move came days after Bank of Scotland cut its business links with Mr Robertson because of concern over his fundamentalist opinions. In a brief statement to the stock market, Laura Ashley said Mr Robertson had resigned from the company with effect from Tuesday.

A spokeswoman for the company said Mr Robertson had written to the chairman of Laura Ashley, Malaysian billionaire Dr Kay Peng Khoo, offering his resignation, which was accepted. "He did not want Laura Ashley to be dragged through the mud because of him." Mr Robertson, known for his highly critical opinions on feminism, homosexuality and social issues, was appointed a director of Laura Ashley in February.